Texas insurance consumer rights regarding repairs and adjusters

Drivers in Texas have specific rights regarding vehicle repairs and the use of adjusters following a collision. When dealing with insurance claims, consumers may encounter ‘insurance steering,’ where adjusters recommend specific facilities through Direct Repair Programs (DRP). While insurers may suggest preferred-shop networks, these recommendations do not legally mandate that a driver use a specific facility for covered collision repairs.

In the event of a dispute over property damage, Texas residents may consider hiring a public adjuster. Under Texas Insurance Code Chapter 4102, a licensed public adjuster represents the insured for a fee specifically on property insurance claims. However, their role is limited to property damage and does not extend to the legal actions or injury claims typically handled by personal injury lawyers. It is important for consumers to distinguish between an insurer’s adjuster, who works for the company, and a public adjuster, who works for the policyholder.