Help with your insurance claim
After a wreck, the insurance side can feel like a second job. We take most of it off your plate. We write the estimate, send it to the adjuster, and keep you updated while the claim moves. Before any of that, we explain your rights, because in Texas you pick the shop, not the insurance company.
Texas law: you choose the shop
Texas Insurance Code § 1952.301 says an auto insurer can't limit your coverage by restricting you from choosing the repair person or shop. If you are claiming on the other driver's policy, that insurer can't require you to use a particular shop or particular parts either.
The Texas Department of Insurance puts it plainly in its consumer bill of rights for auto insurance: “You have the right to choose the repair shop and parts for your vehicle.” Insurers also have to send you written notice of your repair rights. If you think an insurer is not following the rules, the TDI help line is 1-800-252-3439.
Why we stay off preferred-shop lists
Many insurers keep a list of preferred shops and point customers toward it. We are not on any insurer's list, and that is our choice. It means we answer to you, the person who owns the car, and not to the company paying the bill.
It also means we are free to push back. If an estimate leaves out work the car needs, we say so and file for it. One Edinburg customer had used two shops his insurer recommended before he came to us. He wrote: “This time I chose the shop myself and glad I did.” That is the point of the law.
OEM parts, and nothing you did not agree to
We push for OEM parts, the ones made by your car’s manufacturer. If your insurer approves aftermarket parts, we tell you first, and we only use them if you agree. About 90% of our repairs end up with OEM parts.
Sometimes that takes a fight. A customer at our Edinburg shop wrote in May 2026: “Insurance wanted me to repair my vehicle with a used door but Cruz and his staff fought to get me ALL OEM parts.” The insurer agreed in the end.
What we handle while the claim is open
Here is what we take care of once you choose us:
- Writing the estimate and sending it to your adjuster
- Talking to the insurance company directly
- Filing supplements when hidden damage turns up, or when required work like ADAS calibration was left off
- Status updates for you while the claim is open
What we can’t do
We can’t change your policy. Your coverage, your deductible, and what the policy pays are between you and your insurer. We can walk you through the estimate line by line, but the coverage decision belongs to them.
If you were at fault, or you are using your own coverage, the claim runs through your policy and your deductible applies. If the other driver was at fault, you can claim on their policy instead. Either way, the car can come to our Mission or Edinburg shop. If you live in McAllen, both are a short drive.
How a claim works with us
- 01
Open the claim
Call your insurer, or the other driver's, and open a claim. Tell them you have chosen Collision Masters.
- 02
Free estimate
Bring the car to Mission or Edinburg, or call for a tow. The tow is free if we do the repair.
- 03
We work with the adjuster
The estimate goes to the adjuster. We answer their questions and file supplements when the repair calls for more.
- 04
Repair with updates
We keep you posted while the car is in the shop, and call if anything changes.
- 05
Pick up
We walk the finished repair with you before you take the keys.
Frequently asked questions
Can my insurance company make me use their shop?
No. Texas Insurance Code § 1952.301 says your insurer can't restrict your choice of repair shop. On a claim against the other driver's policy, that insurer can't require a particular shop either.
What if my insurer wants aftermarket or used parts?
We tell you before anything is ordered. We push for OEM parts and only use aftermarket if you agree. TDI’s bill of rights says you have the right to choose the repair shop and parts for your vehicle.
What is a supplement?
An addition to the first estimate. Damage often hides behind a bumper or panel and only shows up once it comes off. When that happens, we document it and send a supplement to the adjuster for approval.
Is ADAS calibration covered on a claim?
When the repair requires it, we bill calibration to your insurer as a supplement. If your insurance covers a windshield replacement, it also covers the calibration and resets that job needs.
Who pays the shop, me or the insurance?
On a covered claim, the insurer pays its share of the repair and you are responsible for your deductible, if your policy has one. If the other driver is at fault and their insurer accepts the claim, their policy pays.
Who do I call if my insurer is not treating me fairly?
The Texas Department of Insurance help line is 1-800-252-3439. You can also call us first and we will tell you what we are seeing on the estimate.
Ready to bring your car in?
Walk in during shop hours or give us a call. No appointment needed.