1. Your car is a large investment. Preserve its value and your safety by having it repaired properly and by certified technicians at a reputable collision repair facility. Saving a couple of bucks may not always be worth the cost.

2. Some insurance companies may want you to visit their drive- in claims center before having your car repaired. You can do this, or you may leave your car at your collision repair shop and ask that the insurance company inspect the car there.

3. You are not required by law to obtain more than one estimate or appraisal. The Insurance Company can come to your home, work, or meet with you and your repair shop to evaluate repairs.

4. You have the right to go to the repair shop of your choice. Your insurance company cannot require you to go to a particular shop but may try to persuade you strongly to use the shop or shops of their choice.

5. Differences in repair estimates are common. A lower estimate may not include all necessary work or different kind of parts. If you're not sure why one estimate is different from another you've received, ask the estimator or shop manager to explain the differences to you.

6. Choose a shop that has 3 Dimensional measuring capabilities with print outs and uni-body repair equipment and certified (by I-CAR or ASE, for example) technicians.
Ask if the shop will be using genuine manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts.

7. Let the collision repair shop you choose help you negotiate your claim with the insurance company, this often leads to a better repair for your car and a better deal for you deal.