When you’ve just been in an accident, the last thing you need is pressure. But for many drivers, that’s exactly what they get — especially from insurance companies pushing them toward specific repair shops. This practice is called insurance steering, and in Ohio, it’s illegal.
If you believe your insurance provider has crossed the line, you have the right to take action. This guide will walk you through the process of filing a complaint and provide the resources you need to stand up for your rights.
What Is Insurance Steering?
Insurance steering happens when an insurance company pressures or misleads you into using a specific repair facility — usually one with whom they have a contract. This might sound like:
- “We can’t guarantee repairs unless you go with our shop.”
- “Other shops aren’t approved.”
- “It’ll cost more if you go somewhere else.”
These tactics are illegal under Ohio law. You have the right to choose your own repair shop — and no insurance company can override that.
Learn more about what steering looks like in our post,
👉 Your Right to Choose: How to Identify and Avoid Insurance Steering
Why Filing a Complaint Matters
You’re not just protecting yourself — you’re helping protect every driver in Ohio. When insurance companies are held accountable, they’re less likely to pressure future policyholders or cut corners with repair quality.
Filing a complaint also creates a paper trail that regulators can use to investigate patterns of abuse or misleading behavior.
Step-by-Step: How to File a Complaint
1. Gather Documentation
Before filing, collect:
- Notes of conversations with your insurer (dates, names, what was said)
- Voicemails, texts, or emails that reference shop choice
- Repair shop recommendations or rejections
- Any paperwork showing you were discouraged from choosing your own shop
2. File with the Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI)
Ohio’s regulatory body allows consumers to submit complaints online or by mail.
➡️ File a complaint online
Or call: 1-800-686-1526
Be prepared to explain:
- What was said by the insurance company
- What you believe they did wrong
- What outcome you’re hoping for
3. Include Supporting Materials
Attach any emails, screenshots, or documents you have. These help investigators see the full picture.
4. Stay Informed
The ODI will typically follow up with next steps or request additional information. Keep copies of everything and note any deadlines they provide.
Additional Resources
- 🧭 National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – How to File a Complaint and Research Complaints
- 🧰 Consumer Watchdog – Anti-Steering Laws: What They Are and How They’re Undermined
What Happens After You File?
The Ohio Department of Insurance will open a case and investigate your complaint. They may contact your insurer or ask for clarification. In some cases, they can issue fines or demand corrective actions.
Even if your case doesn’t result in immediate penalties, it adds to a body of evidence that regulators and lawmakers can act on.
Final Thoughts
You deserve to feel confident that your car is being repaired safely, ethically, and with your best interest in mind — not your insurer’s bottom line.
If you’ve been misled or pressured, don’t let it slide.
Filing a complaint is how change starts.
Need help navigating the process? We’re happy to walk you through it — no obligation, just honest answers.
Ohio Drivers: Contact Zanesville Autobody for Your Collision Repair
This article was originally published by Zanesville Autobody Collision and Glass, LLC, a member of the Autobody of Ohio family of auto body shops. If you are in Ohio and looking for a quality autobody shop in Central Ohio, we are here to help you.
We’ll make your car like new again!
Zanesville Autobody Collision and Glass
1152 Newark Road
Zanesville, Ohio 43701
Phone: (740) 487-3111
Fax: (740) 888-3500