Auto Body Repair Laws Every Maryland & Delaware Driver Should Know

If you’ve been in a car accident in Maryland or Delaware, you have legal rights when it comes to auto body repairs—especially when insurance companies are involved. Knowing these laws helps ensure your vehicle is repaired safely, correctly, and fairly.

Here’s what every driver in MD and DE should know.

1. You Have the Right to Choose Your Auto Body Shop

(Maryland & Delaware)

In both Maryland and Delaware, insurance companies cannot require you to use a specific repair shop.

Even if your insurer:

• Recommends a “preferred” shop

• Says repairs will be faster elsewhere

• Claims another shop is “approved”

👉 The choice is always yours.

You are legally allowed to select any licensed auto body shop you trust.

2. Insurance Steering Is Restricted (and Often Illegal)

“Steering” is when an insurance company pressures or misleads you into using a specific shop.

Examples of steering include:

• Saying repairs won’t be guaranteed unless you use their shop

• Delaying claim approval if you choose a different shop

• Claiming your chosen shop is “more expensive” without proof

📌 Both Maryland and Delaware restrict these practices. If you feel pressured, ask for written confirmation and document the conversation.

3. Written Repair Estimates Are Required

In MD and DE, auto body shops must provide:

• A written estimate before repairs begin

• Your approval for any supplemental repairs or added costs

This protects you from unexpected charges and unauthorized work.

4. Aftermarket vs. OEM Parts: What the Law Requires

Insurance companies may request aftermarket or recycled parts, but:

Maryland & Delaware laws require:

• Full disclosure if non-OEM parts are used

• Parts must be like kind and quality

👉 You can often request OEM parts, though there may be a cost difference depending on your policy.

5. Repair Warranties & Workmanship Guarantees

While laws vary slightly, reputable shops in Maryland and Delaware typically:

• Provide written warranties on workmanship

• Stand behind paint, body work, and structural repairs

⚠️ Insurance companies may only guarantee repairs at their network shops—but they cannot deny coverage if you choose a different shop.

6. Total Loss Thresholds (MD vs. DE)

🚗 Maryland

• Maryland uses a Total Loss Formula (TLF)

• A vehicle may be totaled if: Repair Cost + Salvage Value ≥ Actual Cash Value (ACV)

🚗 Delaware

• Delaware generally totals a vehicle when repair costs reach approximately 75% of the vehicle’s value

👉 A local auto body shop can review estimates and help determine if a repair is still possible.

7. Why Local Auto Body Shops Matter in MD & DE

Local shops understand:

• State-specific insurance regulations

• Common insurer tactics

• How to properly document and negotiate repairs

They work for you—not the insurance company.