The Missouri House of Representatives is considering a bill that would prevent steering by insurance companies.
The bill, H.B. 834, would require that estimates for damage claims
written on behalf of an insurer include a written notice that says the
following:
NOTICE UNDER MISSOURI LAW, THE VEHICLE OWNER AND/OR LESSEE HAS THE
RIGHT TO CHOOSE THE REPAIR FACILITY TO MAKE REPAIRS TO THEIR MOTOR
VEHICLE. NO ONE SHALL USE INTIMIDATION OR COERCIVE TACTICS TO ALTER THE
OWNER’S CHOICE.
The bill also says insurers cannot require a claimant to present the
automobile for loss adjustment or inspection at any facility under the
control of the insurer or attempt to “persuade, require, coerce or
pressure” a claimant to use a repair facility other than the facility
of his or her choice.
The bill would also create a board of auto body repair that would
establish and regulate licensing systems for shops and physical damage
appraisers.
Click HERE to read the bill.