Auto repair in Knoxville TN
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough—dealing with insurance afterward shouldn’t make it worse. When you’re trying to get your vehicle back in shape, understanding how insurance adjusters assess damage can help you avoid delays and confusion. While both auto body shops and insurance adjusters evaluate your vehicle, their estimates often don’t match. That’s why it’s important to know what to expect during the auto repair process and how to protect yourself if disagreements come up.
Why Auto Repair Estimates Can Look So Different
After a collision, you might head straight to a body shop and get a full estimate. Soon after, your insurance company sends out an adjuster who provides their own assessment—which ends up being much lower. That might leave you wondering who’s right.
On one hand, body shops focus on restoring your car to its best possible condition. This often means using original parts, recommending extra repairs for long-term safety, and factoring in any hidden damage. As a result, their estimates tend to be more comprehensive and higher in cost.
On the other hand, insurance adjusters work from the insurer’s point of view. They aim to cover only the necessary repairs to return the car to its pre-accident state. Because of this, they often suggest using aftermarket parts and may skip over issues that aren’t immediately visible.
How Insurance Adjusters Decide on Auto Repair Costs
Once a claim is filed, an adjuster reviews the vehicle’s condition. Sometimes, they come out in person. Other times, they may rely on photos and written reports. From there, they estimate repair costs using industry-standard tools and pricing systems. However, their focus is to keep the repair costs within what the policy allows.
This process might sound reasonable, but it doesn’t always reflect the full scope of your auto repair needs. If there’s hidden structural damage or high-quality parts required, the initial estimate may fall short.
What to Do If You Disagree With the Auto Repair Estimate
If your adjuster’s quote seems too low, you’re not stuck. Start by looking at their itemized estimate. Then, compare it to a professional assessment from a trusted body shop. Identify where the differences are—whether it’s parts, labor, or the type of repairs needed.
Next, share this documentation with your insurance company and ask for a reassessment. If needed, you can escalate the issue to a supervisor. Although this may take time, it often leads to a fairer outcome.
Car insurance in Knoxville TN
Choosing Your Own Auto Repair Shop: Yes, You Can
Some drivers think they have to use the auto repair shop in Knoxville TN recommended by their insurance company. That’s not true. While partner shops may offer convenience and faster claim handling, you’re allowed to choose any repair shop you prefer.
Before deciding, take time to compare both options. Some independent shops offer higher-quality service or specialize in your vehicle type. However, preferred shops may offer perks like guaranteed repairs or reduced wait times.
How Adjusters Decide a Car Is a Total Loss During Auto Repair Evaluations
In certain cases, your car might be labeled a total loss. This usually happens when the cost to repair the vehicle reaches a certain percentage of its actual cash value—often around 70%. When that threshold is crossed, the adjuster recommends a payout instead of approving repairs.
Naturally, this can be disappointing, especially if your car still looks repairable. If you believe your car is worth more than the insurer estimates, gather evidence like maintenance records, mileage logs, and photos of recent upgrades to support your claim.
Do Insurance Adjusters Always Inspect the Vehicle in Person?
Not always. For minor accidents, insurance companies in Knoxville TN may allow adjusters to assess damage remotely using photos and written descriptions. Although this approach speeds up the process, it sometimes leads to overlooked damage. If your repairs are more than cosmetic, ask for an in-person inspection to ensure accuracy.
When Adjusters Refuse Repairs: What You Can Do
Occasionally, an adjuster may reject part of the recommended auto repair plan. Typically, this happens when the adjuster believes the suggested work goes beyond what’s needed to restore the car’s original condition.
If that happens, don’t panic. You have options. Start by gathering second opinions from certified mechanics like Miller Brothers Auto Repair and Collision Center. Then, present these findings to your insurance company. If the disagreement continues, consider hiring a public adjuster to negotiate on your behalf.
Hiring an Independent Adjuster for Auto Repair Disputes
If the insurer’s adjuster refuses to revise their estimate, you can bring in a public insurance adjuster. These professionals work for you—not the insurance company. They perform their own inspection, provide a new cost estimate, and negotiate with your insurer to try and reach a better settlement.
Although there’s usually a fee for this service, it can be worth it—especially if the original estimate misses major repairs.
Smart Ways to Prepare for a Fair Auto Repair Claim
To protect yourself, take proactive steps from the beginning. First, read your insurance policy carefully so you know what it covers. Then, document everything related to the accident, including photos of the damage, contact details, and written notes from conversations with the adjuster.
Also, get at least one written estimate from a reliable auto body shop in Knoxville TN. Use this to compare with the adjuster’s findings. If something feels off, speak up early. Being prepared helps you avoid delays and get the repairs your vehicle truly needs.
How to Handle Disputes Without Losing Your Cool
Sometimes, conversations with adjusters can become frustrating—especially if you feel like you’re being rushed or ignored. Stay calm, take detailed notes during every interaction, and remain polite yet firm. If needed, request to speak with someone else in the claims department.
Keep in mind that you’re not required to accept an estimate just because it was issued. You have the right to ask questions, get outside opinions, and push for clarity if something doesn’t feel right.
Dealing with insurance adjusters doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When you understand how estimates are made and what steps to take if you disagree, you’re better equipped to manage your auto repair journey from start to finish. The more informed you are, the smoother the process becomes—and the faster you can get back on the road with confidence.
Need help understanding your auto repair estimate? Call Miller Brothers Auto Repair and Collision Center now to speak with someone who can help you find the right path forward.
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Miller Brothers Auto Repair and Collision Center
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/
Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County
Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville
