Source: Image by Steve Buissinne on Pixabay
Motor insurers are increasingly influencing claims settlement with workshops. In 2016, 30 percent of policyholders were exercised in the event of a body damage, in 2018 it was 41 percent and in 2020 already 55 percent.
However, for 82 percent of those surveyed, the influence is okay or irrelevant. This could explain the very high levels of satisfaction: 95 percent are satisfied or even very satisfied with the claims settlement by the insurer. This is the result of a current analysis by the Cologne institute BBE Automotive GmbH.
Another result: 65 percent of those surveyed would choose a motor vehicle insurer that guarantees individual freedom in choosing a workshop. Nevertheless, the number of insurance policies with a workshop commitment is increasing (2010: nine percent, 2020: 22 percent).
In addition, two thirds of those surveyed obtained a cost estimate before the repair, 31 percent did not. Authorized workshops are popular for estimating costs with 36 percent, followed by independent workshops with 30 percent. When it comes to accident repairs themselves, 84 percent of those surveyed attach great importance to the use of original parts. That is an increase of five percentage points compared to 2016 and 2018 (79 percent).
In addition, 34 percent of those surveyed had body damage on their vehicle, more than half of them within the last three years. Most of the damage results from accidents (48 percent caused by third parties, 25 percent caused by others). According to the company, the amount of damage averaged 2,660 euros and has thus increased compared to 2018 (2,570 euros).
In addition, nine out of ten motorists surveyed have comprehensive insurance for their vehicle (51 percent fully comprehensive, 38 percent partially comprehensive). Only eleven percent insure with the minimum standard, motor vehicle liability insurance.
However, the practice of motor vehicle insurers in business with the workshops is also met with criticism: The Central Association of Body and Vehicle Technology (ZKF) recently criticized “destructive hourly rates” and “exploitation”. Particularly in focus: Huk-Coburg, VHV and Allianz.
Author: VW editorial team
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