When you are involved in a car accident involving injury or property damage, you need to report it to your broker or insurance company within seven days, regardless of who is at fault. If it’s your first time submitting a claim or navigating the repair process, it can seem like a daunting task at first. We’re here to provide some helpful tips and debunk some of the myths surrounding car repairs.

Myth: Your insurer’s chosen repair shop is your only solution.
Many insurance companies work closely with trusted pre-approved auto repair shops under a DRP in order to mitigate fraudulent charges. In 2018, Aviva Canada completed an investigation that revealed 1 out of 10 auto shops tested in Ontario were intentionally damaging cars, installing used parts while they billed for new ones, and invoicing customers for “phantom repairs,” or repairs that never really happened.³
Your insurer will likely give you a list of recommended repair shops around your area, however you’re free to choose a repair shop that is not a part of your insurer’s Direct Repair Program (DRP).

Myth: Dealers are the only ones to offer OEM parts.
Your local repair shop can likely source out the parts you’re looking for in the event of a collision, whether it’s aftermarket or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. The law in Canada requires your insurer to fix any damage with either OEM or aftermarket parts. In some events it may be a better choice to stick with OEM parts for quality and fitting purposes to avoid any complications in the future. You should consult with your mechanic to determine the right choice of parts and their recommendation on aftermarket and OEM solutions, as well as your insurer to determine overall coverage for repair.

Myth: Your car was written-off as a total loss and cannot be repaired.
The branding title your car receives will depend on the damage sustained. If your car is branded “salvaged” at the time of the write-off, you are still within rights to rebuild a vehicle. You will need to  provide photographs and detailed invoices showing proof of purchase on major components. Unfortunately, if your car is registered as irreparable, it can no longer be driven in Ontario.^{1, 2}

Looking to get a quote on car insurance? call an OTIP broker today at 1-833-615-9326 . If you have questions about your current car insurance policy held with OTIP, call your OTIP broker at 1-833-494-0089.
 

1. Repairs, Replacements and Write-Offs – Insurance Bureau of Canada

2. Mandatory Vehicle Branding Program – Ontario Ministry of Transportation

3. What exactly is a preferred body shop? – Driving.ca