If you’ve been involved in a non-fault accident, it’s important to understand where you stand — and what your rights are. While your insurance company might point you towards one of their approved repairers, you’re under no obligation to use them. You are legally entitled to choose your own repair centre.
This matters. Choosing an independent, reputable body shop gives you control over the quality of repairs, the parts used, and the service you receive. It ensures your vehicle is properly repaired, not just patched up.
Why It Pays to Choose Your Own Repair Centre
Many insurers partner with repair shops to keep their own costs down. These approved repairers often work to tight budgets and tight deadlines. That can mean shortcuts — such as using non-genuine parts or generic paint that doesn’t match your car’s original finish.
Poor-quality repairs affect more than just appearance. They can reduce your car’s safety, its performance, and even its resale value.
When you choose your own repair centre, you’re not restricted by your insurer’s priorities. A trusted, independent body shop like Sandown Coachworks uses manufacturer-approved parts, follows correct procedures, and works to return your car to its pre-accident condition.
What Is a Free Accident Management Service and Why It Matters
A free accident management service can take the hassle out of the process. After a collision, you don’t want to spend hours dealing with insurance paperwork, arranging recovery or negotiating over a courtesy car.
An accident management service handles everything on your behalf. This includes:
- Vehicle recovery — arranging for your damaged car to be collected quickly and safely
- Claim management — dealing directly with the insurers to make sure your claim is processed efficiently
- Courtesy car — providing you with a replacement vehicle so you can stay mobile during repairs
- Repair coordination — managing all work to ensure it’s carried out to high standards using genuine parts
This service is usually offered at no cost to you, and it’s especially useful if you’ve never dealt with an insurance claim before. It gives you peace of mind that nothing is being missed or delayed.
The Importance of Using Genuine Parts
One of the most overlooked aspects of non-fault accident repair is the quality of the parts being fitted. Aftermarket or pattern parts might be cheaper, but they rarely match the fit, finish or durability of genuine components.
Genuine parts are designed for your specific make and model. They maintain the structural integrity of the car and are tested to meet the original safety standards. Using the right parts isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about making sure your car performs as it should, especially in the event of another accident.
At Sandown Coachworks, we never cut corners. We use genuine parts and approved paint systems to protect the value and safety of your vehicle.
Know Your Legal Rights
Many drivers assume they have to do what their insurer tells them. That’s not the case. Under the law, you are free to choose your repairer after a non-fault accident.
Insurers may pressure you to use their network, sometimes suggesting you won’t get a courtesy car or cover if you go elsewhere. This simply isn’t true. A good independent body shop will still provide these services, often to a higher standard, and your insurer is still responsible for covering the cost.
Knowing this allows you to take control and demand repairs that meet your expectations, not your insurer’s budget.
What to Do After a Non-Fault Accident: Take Control of Your Repair Choices
Accidents are stressful enough without having to battle over where your car gets repaired. By understanding your rights and choosing a body shop that puts quality first, you can avoid the frustration of poor workmanship and delays.
At Sandown Coachworks, we specialise in non-fault accident repair. We’ll manage the entire process, from collecting your vehicle to dealing with the insurer, and return your car in excellent condition. We offer a full accident management service, provide courtesy cars, and only use genuine parts and manufacturer-approved techniques.
Contact Sandown Coachworks today to speak to our expert team. We’ll guide you through every step and make sure your car is repaired without compromise. Call now or fill in our quick contact form to get started.
