No. In Minnesota, you have the right to choose your own repair shop without insurance approval. Insurance companies may recommend their preferred shops, but they cannot force or pressure you into using them — doing so is known as steering, and it is illegal. If you feel your insurer is steering you, remind them of your rights and insist on your preferred shop. You can also report any violations to the Minnesota Department of Commerce or your preferred repair facility.

Your insurance company will issue you a claim number at the time you report your accident. Make sure you bring it in with you when you come in to begin the repair process, and our collision team will do the rest.

Present their estimate to the body shop for review to ensure all damages are addressed. We will address any missed or hidden damages directly with the insurance company on your behalf.

A car is a total loss only when the price of repairs exceeds the insurance company's determined value of your vehicle.

If you need a rental car, check your insurance company's website for their approved agency and procedures. Your insurance agent will be able to provide information on the steps you should take to get a rental car.

The amount of deductible that you will be responsible for is determined by your insurance policy. Please check your insurance policy or call your agent.

If you aren't sure about your deductible, we recommend that you call your agent. They can tell you how much your deductible is, whether your insurance company has waived your deductible, or whether it will be your responsibility to pay the deductible when you pick up your vehicle.

This is common. Insurance estimates often only cover visible damage. Once we disassemble your vehicle, we submit documentation for hidden damage so your insurer covers the full repair.