Auto Insurance Claims: auto claim, auto claim, own insurance

Question
I was recently hit from behind some minor damage that I can repair myself. The question is do I have to take my vehicle to a body shop after I have check in hand for the repairs if I am able to make the repairs myself?

Answer
Hi Chris,

If the check is issued only to you then yes you can cash the check and do the repairs yourself. However, if you are dealing with your own insurance company and you have a loan on the vehicle then the insurance company is required to issue the check either to you and a body shop or you and the lienholder. In that case you would have to have the vehicle repaired at a professional body shop and simply sign the check over to them.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh