Auto Insurance Claims: Insurance responsibility for auto damage, preferred shops, unseen damage

Question
My Son was rear ended at a red light. The person who rear ended him was cited 100% at fault.  There is rear bumper damage that is visible.  The insurance company sent us to an Auto collision place who looked at the car and gave us a quote for the bumper only.  My son asked if they could check the alignment or frame to make sure there was no other damage and the man told him that the insurance will just pay for the bumper.  What are my rights when it comes to the un-seen if any damage to my car?

Answer
Sally,

First of all, you can take your son's car to any shop you wish, regardless of them being in the network of preferred shops of the liability carrier for the at fault party. Find one that is not affiliated, if possible, with that company. You will get better service, I have found.

In any event, unseen damage is often discovered once the car is torn down for repair and can be addressed with supplements to the original estimate. If the bumper does not fit when it is replaced, there is a chance of further, undiagnosed damage.

Charlie