You have been involved in an
accident or your vehicle has been damaged by a falling tree or some
other means. Now it’s time to call the Insurance Company about the
damages.
Some insurance companies
have programs set up that are called “Direct Repair Programs” or “DRP”
for short
These programs appear on the
surface to be a great deal for everyone involved, emphasizing how quick
the repairs can be completed and also “Guaranteed”.
In reality these programs
can be a sheep in wolfs clothing.
What is not disclosed to you
the consumers are the deals that are agreed to between the “DRP” body
shop and the Insurance Company. Proper disclosure is a key element in
any business transaction.
For the body shop to be a
participant in the “DRP” program they agree to deep discount on parts
and labor, as well as paint materials and other allied materials needed
in the repair of your vehicle.
Imitation parts made by off
shore manufacturers are also a mandatory requirement for repairs to
your vehicle. Remanufactured and used parts being used are the norm.
Used steering and suspension
parts are removed off of vehicles at “Junk Yards”. These parts are then
used in the repair of your vehicle. Keep in mind that “Junk Yard”
vehicle have been deemed to unrepairable or a “total Loss” as a result
of being involved in an accident or for other reasons.
The cost of repairs may be
the primary consideration at “DRP” shops. The quality of the repairs or
the safety of the vehicle may no longer be a primary concern. This is
regardless of the age or the condition of your vehicle
“DRP” shops receive
“severity” reports from their “Insurance Partner” which outlines their
compliance with cost saving measures that are demanded by the Insurance
Company. “DRP” shops that do not comply with these cost saving measures
can be and are dropped from the program.
“DRP” agreements usually
include a “Hold Harmless” clause which means that in case of a problem
or a lawsuit against the Insurance Company and the shop, the Insurer by
written agreement with the shop is absolved and “Held Harmless”. What
this means is that the Insurance Company is absolved any of any
financial responsibility and the “DRP” shop will be responsible for any
judgments against the Insurance Company.
With “disclosure” being so
important, and when being pressured to take your vehicle to a “DRP”
shop, ask the Insurance Company for a written copy of the “DRP”
agreement they have with the “DRP” shop as well as any “Hold Harmless”
Agreements.
You work hard for your
money. Would you work this week for 10 or 15 or 20% less than you did
last week? That’s exactly what the “DRP” shop may be doing to repair
your vehicle.
Remember
the choice is always yours, not the Insurers,
for repairs to your vehicle. Choose an Independent Repair shop that
will repair your vehicle to your standard of safety and quality.
