The sound of screeching tires, the jolt of an impact—a car accident is a stressful and frightening experience. In the moments and days that follow, your focus shifts to safety, well-being, and the daunting task of navigating the insurance and repair process. During this time, your insurance company might suggest a “preferred” repair shop.
But before you agree, there’s something every driver in Chicopee, Springfield, and across the state needs to know: In Massachusetts, the law is on your side. You have the absolute right to have your vehicle repaired at the registered shop of your choice.
Here at the Central Chevrolet Collision Center, we believe an informed customer is an empowered customer. Let’s break down what this right means and why choosing a dealership-certified facility is the best decision for your vehicle.
Understanding the “Right to Repair” in Massachusetts
Insurance companies often have a network of “preferred” or “direct repair program” (DRP) shops. They may encourage or pressure you to use one of these facilities. This practice is known as “steering,” and Massachusetts law (940 CMR 5.06) explicitly protects you from it.
An insurer cannot force you to use a specific shop. Their only legal requirement is to provide you with a list of registered repair shops in your area. The final decision is, and always should be, yours.
Why Choose Central Chevrolet’s Certified Collision Center?
When your insurance company suggests a shop, it’s often because that shop has agreed to meet certain cost-saving targets for the insurer. But is their priority saving you money, or saving the insurance company money?
Our priority is different. We work for YOU. Our goal is to restore your Chevrolet to its pre-accident condition in terms of safety, performance, and appearance. Here’s why that makes a difference:
1. We Use Genuine OEM Parts
Our commitment is to use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts whenever possible. These are the same parts your Chevy was built with at the factory. They guarantee a perfect fit, maintain your vehicle’s structural integrity, and ensure safety systems like airbags and collision sensors function exactly as designed. Many DRP shops default to aftermarket or even salvaged parts to cut costs, which can compromise fit, finish, and safety.
2. Factory-Trained Technicians
Modern vehicles are incredibly complex. Repairing them correctly requires specialized knowledge of high-strength steels, advanced electronics, and specific factory procedures. Our technicians are factory-trained and I-CAR Gold Class certified, meaning they have the most up-to-date expertise to repair your Chevrolet the right way.
3. State-of-the-Art Equipment
From frame-straightening machines to advanced color-matching paint systems and tools for recalibrating Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), we have the manufacturer-approved equipment to do the job right. Your vehicle will not only look like new, but its vital safety systems will perform like new.
4. We Are Your Advocate
Navigating an insurance claim can be confusing. We work with ALL major insurance providers. We’ll meticulously assess the damage and negotiate directly with the adjuster to ensure your repair plan includes everything necessary to bring your vehicle back to factory specifications. We fight for the proper procedures and parts, so you don’t have to.
Your Trusted Partner After an Accident
An accident is disruptive enough. The repair process shouldn’t add to your stress. By exercising your right to choose, you are taking control and ensuring your valuable investment is repaired with the highest standards of quality and safety.
If you’ve been in a collision in Chicopee, Springfield, or anywhere in Western Mass, make your first call to the Central Chevrolet Collision Center in West Springfield. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process with professionalism and care.
Contact our Collision Center today for a free estimate or call us to learn more about the repair process. We’re here to help!
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