Do I need three estimates?
No. Massachusetts law states your only obligation is to choose the shop of your choice and inform
the insurance company where the vehicle is going.
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What if an insurance company refuses to work with the shop of my choice?
By law, an insurance company cannot refuse your request and must negotiate with the registered
shop of your choice. It is in both parties' best interest to get your vehicle repaired and back to you as
quickly as possible, without charging you extra. The Insurance Commissioner does not tolerate delaying the
repair through unlawful practices.
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Can the insurance company make me go to their claims center for an estimate?
No. You can drop the vehicle off at the shop of your choice and they will schedule an insurance adjuster to come out.
If you do go to their claims center, accept the estimate and the check they give you.
However, do not sign anything that states you accept their check as payment in full. The insurance companies know the
repair shop may call with additional damage costs that were not anticipated during the visual inspection.
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Where do I get a claim number?
If your agent or insurance company has not already given you a claim number,
Essex County Collision will contact them on your behalf to obtain the claim number for reference
on your repair order.
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Where do I pay my deductible?
It is your responsibility to pay the deductible to Essex County Collision at the time you pick up your vehicle.
If you do not know the amount of your deductible, this information is available from your insurance agent.
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Where can I get additional information on Massachusetts auto insurance laws?
Follow this link to the Commonwealth of Massachusett's website for much more insurance law information: Mass.gov
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