Insurance Claims Assistance
Filing an auto insurance claim after an accident is stressful, confusing, and time-consuming—and that's before you factor in getting your vehicle repaired. At Hammer's Autoworks, we try to take that burden off your plate. Our team provides hands-on auto insurance claim assistance in Springfield, MO, working directly with your insurance carrier from start to finish so you can focus on getting back to your life.
You Have the Right to Choose Your Own Shop
In Missouri, you have the legal right to choose your own auto body repair shop after an accident. Your insurance company may recommend a preferred or “approved” shop, but that recommendation is not a requirement. These shops participate in a DRP (Direct Repair Program) and are under contract with the insurance company. You are not obligated to use them. This practice—known as insurance steering—is something every driver should be aware of. Insurers may steer you toward shops that work within their preferred pricing structures, but that doesn’t mean those shops work in your best interest.
Choosing your own shop means choosing a team that works for you—not for the insurance company. At Hammer’s Autoworks, that’s exactly what we do. We advocate for the full scope of repairs your vehicle needs, using quality parts and certified repair procedures, regardless of what’s easiest or cheapest for the insurer.
What We Handle So You Don't Have To
Navigating an insurance claim involves a lot of moving parts. When you bring your vehicle to Hammer’s, we take the following off your hands:
- Damage documentation and photo evidence for your claim
- Direct communication with your insurance adjuster
- Repair estimate submission and negotiation
- Supplemental claims when additional damage is discovered during repair
- Coordination with rental car providers when applicable
- Final repair verification and delivery
How Insurance Claims Work—And How We Help
The insurance claims process can feel like a maze. Here’s a straightforward look at how it works and where Hammer’s steps in.
Why Springfield Drivers Trust Hammer's with Their Insurance Claims
Dealing with insurance after an accident is already overwhelming. The last thing you need is a shop that leaves you to figure it out alone. Hammer’s Autoworks has guided hundreds of Springfield drivers through the claims process, and we’ve built a reputation for making it easier.
Navigating an insurance claim involves a lot of moving parts. When you bring your vehicle to Hammer’s, we take the following off your hands:
- Hands-on insurance claim coordination from start to finish
- Communication with your insurance or adjuster—we handle it
- OEM Certified repairs that meet manufacturer standards
- I-CAR and OEM Certified technicians on every job
- Supplemental claim support when additional damage is found
- Transparent process with clear communication throughout
Common Questions About Insurance Claims in Springfield
Have questions about insurance claims? You’re not alone. Here are a few of the things we hear most often.
Do I have to use the shop my insurance company recommends?
No. Missouri law gives you the right to choose your own repair facility. Insurance companies may suggest a preferred shop, but the choice is always yours. Hammer's Autoworks works with all major carriers and handles the coordination directly.
What if my insurance company's estimate doesn't cover everything my vehicle needs?
This happens more often than it should. When our technicians identify damage that isn't covered in the initial estimate, we file a supplemental claim on your behalf. We document the additional damage and communicate directly with your adjuster to get it properly included.
Will using my own shop slow down my claim?
Not at Hammer's. We have experience working with all major insurance carriers and know how to move the process forward efficiently. In many cases, our communication with adjusters speeds things up—not the other way around.
What insurance companies do you work with?
We work with all major auto insurance carriers. If you're unsure whether we've worked with yours, just ask—chances are we have.
What happens if more damage is found after repairs begin?
It's not uncommon for additional damage to be discovered once the repair process is underway. When that happens, we document it immediately and file a supplemental claim with your insurance company. We don't proceed with additional work until it's approved, and we keep you informed every step of the way.
What if my vehicle is declared a total loss?
If your insurer determines that the cost of repair exceeds the vehicle's value, they may declare it a total loss. If that happens, we'll let you know immediately and help you understand your options. We'll provide any documentation your insurer needs to process the total loss claim.
Let Us Handle the Insurance. You Focus on Everything Else.
Stress-Free Auto Insurance Claim Assistance Starts Here
You’ve already dealt with the accident. Let Hammer’s Autoworks deal with the insurance company. Contact us today to get started—we’ll assess your damage, document everything, and take it from there.