Helpful Links:
- ORC, using original equipment manufacturer aftermarket crash parts: http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/1345.81
- OAC, settlement practices for auto insurance claims - see section (H) (1): http://66.161.141.185/oac/3901-1-54 (Rule 54)
Helpful Note:
- There is a distinction between first party and third party claims. First party claims
(your own carrier) have no contractual obligation to provide OEM parts. On a third party complaint,
the company has a duty to their insured to pay what their insured would legally owe. The Ohio
Supreme Court has ruled that parts that meet or exceed manufacturer's tolerance for fit, finish,
and performance are fungible (they are the same). Please see Rule 54 above, which states that
the insured gets to sign off on the use of OEM parts.
Consumer Tips:
- Remember, it's YOUR car. You get to decide where and how it's repaired, but be sure you know what the insurance company is going to pay so there are no surprises when repairs are complete. Be sure it's one you trust. You cannot be "forced" to use a shop you don't want to use.
- Get several estimates. See what the difference is. Compare labor rates, parts cost (mark up), and scope of repairs (if one shop tells you to replace the bumper and another says you just need a bumper cover, something is wrong).
- Make sure the auto repair company offers a "lifetime" warranty on the repairs. Almost all do.
- Be aware that the parts are only warranted against manufacturers defects. Workmanship is warranted by the body shop and auto body repair is a craft. Some shops are better than others.
- If it's a third party claim and you are unhappy with the claims handling, consider using your own company.
- If a consumer has questions, they can call the Department's consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526
for free, unbiased information.
Regarding the Body Shop Registration Issue:
- Letter from Director Mary Jo Hudson, which had been in the works for some time: http://ohioinsurance.gov/Newsroom/scripts/Release.asp?ReleaseID=6123
- Ohio Board of Motor Vehicle Collision Repair Registration web site:
http://www.collisionboard.ohio.gov/
The Ohio Department of Insurance has received no complaints specifically regarding unregistered collision repair shops. The regulation of the collision repair shops is not within our jurisdiction, but is within the jurisdiction of the Collision Board. Their phone number is 614-995-0714.
