03/11/2026
Though your insurance company may try to refer or steer you to their direct repair shop, you have the legal right to choose who repairs your vehicle after an accident. McKinley's Body Shop is an independent repair facility. We provide quality repairs and warranty all of our work.
Independent repair shop: An independent collision shop is a repair facility not in contract with any insurance companies.
DRP shop: A direct repair shop is a repair facility that has a contract or agreement with one or more insurance companies that guarantees the shop insurance work referrals in exchange for certain stipulations being met that are specified by the insurance company.
"DRP (Direct Repair Program) agreements between auto body shops and insurers establish a partnership focusing on cost-cutting and efficiency. Key elements include pre-negotiated, lower labor rates, required usage of aftermarket or recycled parts, strict, faster repair timelines, direct billing to the insurer, and "hold harmless" clauses that protect insurers from repair liability.
Common Terms in DRP Contracts
Cost Controls: Agreements mandate discounts on parts and materials, as well as capped or fixed labor rates.
Parts Selection: Shops are often required or incentivized to use aftermarket, remanufactured, or used parts instead of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
Repair Procedures: Shops must adhere to specific, insurer-approved repair workflows rather than following full manufacturer, repair, instructions.
"Hold Harmless" Clauses: These protect the insurance company from legal responsibility or damages if a customer sues over a faulty repair, often shifting liability onto the shop.
Efficiency Standards: Programs set strict requirements for cycle time (how fast the car is repaired) and average repair costs.
What DRP Means for Consumers
While DRPs provide faster, streamlined, and, direct billing to insurers, they can lead to, situations where the shop acts more in the insurer's interest to control costs than in the consumer's interest to have the highest quality repair. Consumers have the right to choose any shop and are not obligated to use a DRP shop."