INSURANCE CLAIMS
Your Right to Choose a Repair Shop in Texas
Did you know you have the legal right to choose your repair shop for insurance claims? Many insurance companies may try to steer you toward their "preferred" or "in-network" vendors, but Texas law protects your freedom to make the best choice for your vehicle. At DentOut, we ensure you receive high-quality repairs while respecting your rights
1. RIGHT TO CHOOSE YOUR REPAIR FACILITY
Under Texas Insurance Code, Section 1952.301, insurers cannot:
- Specify the brand, type, kind, age, vendor, supplier, or condition of parts used in your vehicle’s repair.
- Limit your choice of repair shop or technician.
2. PROHIBITION AGAINST STEERING
Per Texas Insurance Code, Section 1952.302, insurance companies, their employees, agents, or adjusters cannot:
- Require or suggest that you use a specific repair facility.
- Push you toward their "preferred" repair shops.
3. NOTICE OF YOUR RIGHTS
Insurers are required by law (Texas Administrative Code, Title 28, Section 5.501) to inform you of your rights, including:
- The freedom to select the repair facility of your choice.
- Control over the parts and methods used in your vehicle's repair.
4. PROTECTION AGAINST UNFAIR PRACTICES
Prompt Payment of Claims
Texas mandates strict timelines under Texas Insurance Code Chapter 542:

- Claim acknowledgment and start of investigation: within 15 business days.
- Decision to accept or deny your claim: within 15 business days after receiving all documents.
- If unable to decide, insurer must notify you and can extend for up to 45 days.
- Payment after approval: insurer must pay within 5 business days after notifying you.
- If these deadlines aren’t met, you may be entitled to interest penalties and attorney fees.
Legal References:
Texas Insurance Code §542.055 (Acknowledgment & Investigation)
Texas Insurance Code §542.056 (Acceptance or Rejection)
Texas Insurance Code §542.057 (Prompt Payment after Approval)
- Texas Insurance Code §542.060 (Penalties)
5. PROTECTION AGAINST UNFAIR AND DECEPTIVE PRACTICES
Texas Insurance Codes §541 and §542 forbid unfair, misleading, or bad-faith practices such as:
- Misrepresenting coverage terms.
- Failing to communicate promptly.
- Refusing or failing to investigate properly.
- Delaying payment unnecessarily.
- Making unreasonable settlement offers (lowballing).
- Failing to explain claim denials clearly.
- Requiring unrelated information, like federal tax returns.
- These actions are illegal and provide grounds for legal recourse.
Legal References:
Texas Insurance Code §541.060 (Unfair Settlement Practices)
- Texas Insurance Code §542.003 (Unfair Claims Practices)
Additional Important Rights and Protections
1. Coverage Cannot Be Reduced by Insurer Deals
Insurer agreements with certain repair shops cannot reduce your coverage or the amount payable to repair your vehicle properly.
Legal Reference: Texas Insurance Code §1952.303(a)
2. “Like Kind and Quality” Repairs
Insurers must pay for repairs using parts of "like kind and quality" to restore your vehicle to pre-loss condition, protecting your vehicle’s safety, value, and warranty.
Legal Reference: Texas Administrative Code, Title 28, §5.501(b)
3. Your Consent for Policy Limitations
Any limitation restricting your choice of repairer or parts must be explicitly disclosed and approved by you at policy inception.
Legal Reference: Texas Insurance Code §1952.301(c)
4. Your Right to Complain and Seek Help
If your rights are violated, you have the right to submit complaints to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI).
- Legal Reference: Texas Insurance Code §1952.306
WHY CHOOSE DENTOUT
When it comes to repairing your vehicle, you deserve a shop that prioritizes quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Here’s why we’re the right choice:
- We Respect Your Rights: We work with all insurance companies, but our loyalty is to you. We'll never let anyone pressure you into decisions that aren’t in your best interest.
- High-Quality Repairs: Our certified technicians use advanced tools and methods to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.
- Seamless Claims Process: We handle all the paperwork, making the process stress-free while keeping you informed every step of the way.
- 1-Year Workmanship Warranty: Our work is backed by a warranty, so you can feel confident in the repairs.
THE TRUTH ABOUT ESTIMATES
You may hear that you need multiple estimates or must shop around for the lowest price. That’s simply not true. In Texas, you are not required to:
- Get estimates from multiple repair shops.
- Choose the cheapest shop in town.
Instead, focus on quality and trust. At DentOut, we provide accurate, fair estimates without cutting corners or compromising safety.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
- Know Your Rights: Don’t let insurance companies steer you into their network shops. Choose the repair shop that works for you.
- Ask Questions: Ensure the repair facility uses high-quality parts and offers guarantees on their work.
- Trust Reputation:
Rely on repair shops like DentOut, known for expertise and customer satisfaction.
Need Assistance or Have Questions? If an insurer violates your rights, contact:
Texas Department of Insurance (TDI)
Phone: 1-800-252-3439
Website:
tdi.texas.gov
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. For specific legal concerns, please consult a qualified attorney. While we strive to keep our information accurate and up-to-date, we recommend verifying details with your insurance provider or legal counsel.
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