Should I get a repair estimate with insurance claim or without?

Should I get a repair estimate with insurance claim or without?
I recently had my car appraised over the damage that was done to my car from a collision. The Ins. company will mail me a check for the total cost of the reapir submitted from their estimator. I haven't had any estimates done from any repair shops. Would the estimate go up or down depending on whether it was an insurance claim or not? Seems like the cost would go up if it was an Ins. claim.


Answers:

Zandelia:  makes no difference. the damage is what it is.
2006-11-09 10:02:15
John S:  Most all body shops have an hourly rate that the ins. co's are well aware of. The insurance co's I've dealt with have always been fair, HOWEVER, often the body shop will need to convince the adjuster that a part needs to be OEM, or other parts are needed. I like to have the body shop be in contact with the adjuster when needed. I would still get an estimate from where you want the work done. Talk to the body shop manager. It shouldn't change anything. If anything, maybe you could skip some parts or use aftermarket, and save some money.
2006-11-09 10:06:07
Chosen Answer
red dawn:  No you need to get estimate for your info so you know what the damage is. Also verify what they do for supplements ( that's any additional damage not on their original estimate ) If they send you the check make sure you do not cash it until the repairs are complete if you cash it they could refuse to pay for additional damage.
2006-11-09 10:06:59
ERIC J:  Usually it doesnt matter but Ive learned that if you are able to take it to your mechanic for the repairs it all works out the same. If you happen to know a friend that can estimate the work you might be able to get a little higher estimate or even get a little extra money out of the whole deal.
2006-11-09 10:08:39
oklatom:  It is the same either way. If you find a shop that has two rates, one for you and one for insurance, avoid going there, they are committing fraud.
2006-11-09 11:01:01
dlw316:  If its a reputable shop it shouldnt make a difference.If its a shady repair shop they might make estimate higher without insurance claim.Because if they know you have a claim with insurance there not gonna rip you.Because they know the insurance company wont pay it if its to high.Thats why they have insurance adjusters.I would recommend checking with insurance company to see you they have on there list of preffered shops.That way the work on your veh would be guaranteed for as long as you own it by the insurance company.
2006-11-09 13:47:50
CowboyBill:  Nope. Damage is damage. Most insurance appraisers write hundreds more estimates a year than body shops do so unless you have a real dumbell inspecting your car you should be set. Plus, any insurance company will pay a supplemental amount to you (or a bodyshop) if additional/hidden damages are discovered after repairs begin.
2006-11-09 16:00:55