Do I Have To Use My Insurance’s Recommended Body Shop?

Short answer: No — you can take your car wherever you want.

After an accident, your insurance company might suggest a “preferred” or “in-network” auto body shop. It sounds convenient… but here’s the truth they don’t always tell you:

You’re legally allowed to choose your own repair shop.

That means you don’t have to go with their recommendation. You can bring your car to any licensed and qualified body shop you trust — like Tip Top Auto Body in Garden City Park.

🚫 Why Do Insurance Companies Push You Toward Their Shops?

Insurance companies usually suggest shops that are part of their Direct Repair Program (DRP). These shops agree to follow the insurance company's rules to stay in the network. That can sometimes mean:

• Using cheaper aftermarket or non-OEM parts
• Skipping steps to cut repair time
• Rushed repairs to hit deadlines

That doesn’t mean all DRP shops are bad — but they work for the insurance company, not you.

✅ Why Choosing Your Own Body Shop Matters

When you pick a collision center like Tip Top, you’re hiring a team that works for you — not your insurer.

At Tip Top Auto Body:

• We use OEM-quality parts
• Repairs are done to factory standards
• You get a lifetime warranty on bodywork and paint
• We’ll handle the insurance paperwork for you

We deal with all major insurance carriers and know how to navigate claims without cutting corners.

📍 Local Drivers Have the Right to Choose

Whether you’re in New Hyde Park, Garden City Park, or anywhere across Nassau County, you can bring your car straight to Tip Top. You don’t need a referral, and we’ll work directly with your insurer to get everything approved.

🛠️ What About Insurance Coverage?

Good news — your insurance coverage doesn’t change if you choose your own shop.

They may try to make it sound like it’ll cost you more, but it won’t. It’s still their job to cover:

• Parts
• Labor
• Paint
• Rental car (if included in your policy)

We’ll even help you file the claim, submit photos, and answer any questions.

🧾 How the Process Works at Tip Top

Here’s how easy it is:

1. Get a free estimate — upload photos online or stop by our shop
2. We contact your insurance and handle the back-and-forth
3. You get updates while your car gets repaired
4. Drive away stress-free with a lifetime warranty

💡 Pro Tip: Ask Questions

If your insurance adjuster pressures you to use their shop, ask:

• “Am I required to use that shop?”
• “Will you still guarantee the work if I choose my own?”
• “What happens if I go to a certified shop like Tip Top?”

You’ll often find that the “recommended shop” is just a suggestion.

Ready to Get Your Car Fixed Right?

You don’t need to play phone tag with your insurer or worry about being steered in the wrong direction. At Tip Top Auto Body, we’ve helped thousands of Long Island drivers navigate the claims process — and we’re ready to help you too.