Yes—you can choose your own licensed body shop.

What New Jersey says

New Jersey’s Department of Banking and Insurance says a vehicle owner may choose a licensed repair shop. The insurer must make a reasonable effort to reach an agreed repair price with the selected facility.

If an agreed price cannot be reached, the insurer may identify licensed facilities willing to perform the work at the insurer’s determined price. That does not erase your original choice, but it can create a cost or coverage decision that should be discussed before work continues.

Recommended and network shops

An insurer may recommend a repair facility, especially when a claim is first reported. Network programs can simplify certain approvals and communications, but you are not required to abandon a licensed shop you trust simply because another facility appears in an app, text message, or referral list.

Atey participates in Allstate’s Good Hands® Repair Network and also handles claims involving other major carriers. The repair owner remains the customer in either situation.

What to say when reporting the claim

Be direct: “I am choosing Atey Auto Body at 302 Huyler Street in South Hackensack as my repair facility.” Ask for the claim number and the name or contact information of the assigned adjuster.

Avoid authorizing repairs, disassembly, or movement to another shop unless that is what you intend. If the vehicle is already at a tow yard or different facility, ask about release, towing, and storage before delays add cost.

• Claim number and carrier contact
• Insurer estimate and photographs
• Police report information when available
• Current vehicle and tow-yard location
• Rental coverage details

Choice does not guarantee every charge is covered

Choosing a shop and obtaining insurance coverage for every proposed operation are separate issues. Policy terms, deductibles, parts decisions, labor rates, documentation, and insurer negotiations can affect the amount paid.

Atey documents the repair requirements and discusses meaningful differences with you. No website can determine coverage for a specific claim; your policy and carrier’s written decisions control that question.