SGI offers new program that allows vehicle owners to have some damage estimated at accredited auto repair firms

Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) has announced a new program that allows vehicle owners in the province to have some damage estimated at accredited auto repair firms, instead of taking the vehicle to an SGI claims centre first.

On Wednesday, SGI said that is partnering with the auto repair industry in a bid to help streamline the claims process. Customers will be able to have everything from the damage estimate to completed repairs done within one shop, instead of taking their vehicle to an SGI claims centre first, SGI said in a press release.

About 20 repair firms in the province are already doing damage estimates, SGI reported, and the majority of accredited repair firms are expected to be estimating by the end of the year.

Repair firms will start by estimating smaller claims from more minor collisions. Each year, there are more than 200,000 auto damage claims in Saskatchewan, according to SGI.

“SGI recognizes insurance claims are not planned for; dealing with the claims process takes valuable time from our already busy days,” said Don McMorris, Minister Responsible for SGI, in the release. “SGI is making things easier for customers, by providing an option to streamline simpler claims, so vehicles can get back on the road sooner.”

Filing a claim will remain the same for customers: when it is time to get the vehicle’s damage estimated, they will be asked where they want to have the estimate done. Their adjuster will let them know whether or not their chosen repair firm qualifies to perform the damage estimate. If it does, the customer can take their vehicle in and have everything done in one location.

“It’s a one-stop shop,” McMorris added. “The repair firms can help improve the customers’ claim experience and customers get their vehicles fixed faster. It’s a win-win, which is why we’re so excited to give Saskatchewan residents this new option.”

Repair firms must undergo training every year to keep up with damage estimate policies and procedures. Significant checks and balances are already in place for auditing to ensure customers are receiving accurate estimates for vehicle repairs, including an annual drop-in to each firm, SGI said.