You’ve just been in a car accident in Milwaukee. You file a claim, and your insurance company quickly recommends a body shop. They say it’s “preferred,” “approved,” or part of their “direct repair program.” It sounds convenient—and maybe even faster—but what aren’t they telling you?
At Hupy and Abraham, S.C., we’ve represented thousands of accident victims over the past 50 years. We know how insurance companies operate—and how their recommendations don’t always serve your best interests. Your car, your finances, and your legal rights deserve careful consideration.
Let’s break down what your options really are—and what Wisconsin law allows you to do.
What the Law Says About Your Repair Shop Choice
Insurance companies can suggest a body shop, but they cannot require you to use it. Wisconsin law clearly supports your right to choose where your car gets repaired. This protects your freedom to make the best decision for your vehicle’s condition and long-term value.
Wisconsin Statute § 632.38(2) states that insurers cannot dictate which shop you use for repairs. While they may recommend a shop from their direct repair network, the choice ultimately rests with you.
Why Insurers Push Their Preferred Shops
Insurers often have long-standing relationships with certain body shops. These arrangements benefit the insurance company by cutting costs, but they may not always benefit you as the vehicle owner.
Shops that are part of the insurer's direct repair program typically agree to discounted labor rates and limitations on what parts they use. This keeps the insurance company’s expenses down, but it may result in lower-quality repairs.
How Insurer-Recommended Shops Might Cut Corners
Insurer-approved body shops may face pressure to minimize repair costs to stay in good standing with the insurance company. This could affect the quality of work on your vehicle:
- Non-OEM parts may be used. Insurers may favor cheaper aftermarket parts over original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components, which can affect your vehicle's performance and safety.
- Hidden damage may go unrepaired. If the shop follows a limited repair scope approved by the insurer, some accident-related damage may be overlooked.
- Work may be rushed. Shops under insurer agreements may face incentives to finish work quickly rather than thoroughly.
The Benefits of Choosing Your Own Repair Shop
You have the right to choose a repair facility that puts your interests first—not the insurer’s bottom line. Independent shops are accountable to you rather than an insurance company.
When you pick your own body shop, you gain control over the quality, parts, and processes used to restore your vehicle. Here’s what you can expect from reputable, independent shops:
- Unbiased repair recommendations. An independent shop works for you and evaluates all damage fairly.
- Greater transparency. Independent mechanics are often more willing to explain their findings and give honest estimates.
- OEM parts and proper procedures. Your chosen shop can prioritize safety and long-term performance by using the best parts and techniques.
What to Do if the Insurance Company Pushes Back
Sometimes, choosing your own shop leads to friction with the insurer, especially if the shop's estimate is higher or calls for OEM parts, and it’s hard to know what to do next.
This doesn't mean you're out of options. You still have the right to insist on proper repairs, and you may need to advocate for yourself—or have an attorney advocate on your behalf.
Signs the Insurance Company Is Acting in Bad Faith
Insurance companies must process claims in good faith. If they try to limit your rights or delay payment, that could be a violation. Here are some red flags that they’re operating in bad faith:
- They refuse to honor your choice of shop. You have a legal right to select your repair facility.
- They delay or deny repairs. Deliberate stalling or lowball offers may be tactics to pressure you into accepting less.
- They suggest repairs that don’t fully restore your car. Repairs must restore the vehicle to its pre-accident condition—not just make it drivable.
Your Repairs May Affect Your Personal Injury Claim
If your accident resulted in injuries, the quality of your vehicle repairs can become part of your larger legal case. Accurate documentation from an independent shop may help establish the severity of the crash or dispute the insurer’s attempts to undervalue your losses.
A poorly repaired vehicle can also compromise your safety in future collisions. That’s why it’s important to get a full damage assessment and keep all repair records for your claim.
What Hupy and Abraham, S.C. Stands for in Every Car Accident Case
For over 50 years, the car accident attorneys at Hupy and Abraham, S.C. has protected the rights of car accident victims in Milwaukee and throughout the Midwest. We’ve recovered over $2 billion for more than 80,000 clients because we fight for every dollar they deserve.
When insurance companies use their power to steer you toward choices that benefit them, we help you push back—with confidence, with clarity, and with your rights front and center.
