UNDERSTANDING INSURANCE CLAIMS AFTER A COLLISION: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
If you’ve been in a collision, the repair process is only half the story — the insurance claim is the part most drivers find confusing. Between deductibles, adjusters, “preferred shops,” and parts choices, it’s easy to feel pressured into a repair that benefits the insurer more than you.
This guide breaks the process down in plain language so you know your rights before you sign anything
Step 1: Report the Accident
After a collision, the first step is notifying your insurance provider. You’ll need:
Policy number
Date, time, and location of the incident
Photos or video (if available)
Other driver’s information (if applicable)
Once the claim is opened, you’ll be assigned a claims adjuster.
Step 2: Vehicle Assessment & Estimate
The adjuster will either:
Ask you to visit a collision centre for a quote, or
Send you to one of their “preferred shops.”
Important:
You are not required to use the insurance company’s preferred shop.
You may choose ANY licensed repair facility you trust.
This is protected by Canadian consumer repair rights.
Step 3: OEM vs Aftermarket Parts (Claim Decision)
This is where most drivers are caught off-guard.
Insurance companies often default to aftermarket parts to lower their payout. If you want OEM parts, you must request them — especially for:
✅ Newer or leased vehicles
✅ Vehicles under manufacturer warranty
✅ Advanced safety system / sensor-equipped models
A reputable collision shop will help you document why OEM is necessary.
Step 4: Approval & Authorization
Once the estimate is submitted, your shop and adjuster negotiate what will be covered.
When approved, you’ll sign a repair authorization.
This is also where:
Your deductible amount is confirmed
Loaner/rental vehicle coverage is set (if included in policy)
Step 5: Repair, Calibration & Quality Check
Modern repairs are more than just bodywork — they include:
Frame alignment
Paint and finish matching
Sensor recalibration (ADAS)
Safety system diagnostics
Skipping calibrations can result in malfunctioning lane assist, blind spot monitoring, or emergency braking.
Step 6: Final Inspection & Return of Vehicle
Before the shop releases the vehicle:
✅ Fitment and alignment are checked
✅ Paint is colour-matched
✅ Sensors are recalibrated
✅ Documentation is completed
✅ Warranty or service record is issued
You then pay only the deductible (if required) — the insurer pays the rest.
Your Rights Most Drivers Don’t Know
Common Myth | The Truth |
|---|---|
You must use a “preferred shop” | You can choose ANY licensed shop |
Insurance decides which parts are used | You can request OEM |
Insurer controls the process | You control repair authorization |
Why Choosing the Right Shop Matters
A good collision centre doesn’t just fix your car — it protects you from being pressured into shortcuts during the insurance process. The wrong shop can cost you:
Warranty coverage
Vehicle safety
Long-term resale value
The right shop represents you, not the insurer.
Need Help With a Claim?
If you’re unsure how to navigate your insurance claim, our team can walk you through the process, help you request OEM parts, and ensure your vehicle is restored the right way — not the cheapest way.
📩 Contact us: info@cfleetauto.com
🚗 Collision & Insurance Claim Specialists — Corporate Fleet
If you’ve been in a collision, the repair process is only half the story — the insurance claim is the part most drivers find confusing. Between deductibles, adjusters, “preferred shops,” and parts choices, it’s easy to feel pressured into a repair that benefits the insurer more than you.
This guide breaks the process down in plain language so you know your rights before you sign anything
Step 1: Report the Accident
After a collision, the first step is notifying your insurance provider. You’ll need:
Policy number
Date, time, and location of the incident
Photos or video (if available)
Other driver’s information (if applicable)
Once the claim is opened, you’ll be assigned a claims adjuster.
Step 2: Vehicle Assessment & Estimate
The adjuster will either:
Ask you to visit a collision centre for a quote, or
Send you to one of their “preferred shops.”
Important:
You are not required to use the insurance company’s preferred shop.
You may choose ANY licensed repair facility you trust.
This is protected by Canadian consumer repair rights.
Step 3: OEM vs Aftermarket Parts (Claim Decision)
This is where most drivers are caught off-guard.
Insurance companies often default to aftermarket parts to lower their payout. If you want OEM parts, you must request them — especially for:
✅ Newer or leased vehicles
✅ Vehicles under manufacturer warranty
✅ Advanced safety system / sensor-equipped models
A reputable collision shop will help you document why OEM is necessary.
Step 4: Approval & Authorization
Once the estimate is submitted, your shop and adjuster negotiate what will be covered.
When approved, you’ll sign a repair authorization.
This is also where:
Your deductible amount is confirmed
Loaner/rental vehicle coverage is set (if included in policy)
Step 5: Repair, Calibration & Quality Check
Modern repairs are more than just bodywork — they include:
Frame alignment
Paint and finish matching
Sensor recalibration (ADAS)
Safety system diagnostics
Skipping calibrations can result in malfunctioning lane assist, blind spot monitoring, or emergency braking.
Step 6: Final Inspection & Return of Vehicle
Before the shop releases the vehicle:
✅ Fitment and alignment are checked
✅ Paint is colour-matched
✅ Sensors are recalibrated
✅ Documentation is completed
✅ Warranty or service record is issued
You then pay only the deductible (if required) — the insurer pays the rest.
Your Rights Most Drivers Don’t Know
Common Myth | The Truth |
|---|---|
You must use a “preferred shop” | You can choose ANY licensed shop |
Insurance decides which parts are used | You can request OEM |
Insurer controls the process | You control repair authorization |
Why Choosing the Right Shop Matters
A good collision centre doesn’t just fix your car — it protects you from being pressured into shortcuts during the insurance process. The wrong shop can cost you:
Warranty coverage
Vehicle safety
Long-term resale value
The right shop represents you, not the insurer.
Need Help With a Claim?
If you’re unsure how to navigate your insurance claim, our team can walk you through the process, help you request OEM parts, and ensure your vehicle is restored the right way — not the cheapest way.
📩 Contact us: info@cfleetauto.com
🚗 Collision & Insurance Claim Specialists — Corporate Fleet
