17:33B-36.1 - Selection of auto body repair shop; notification form

17:33B-36.1  Selection of auto body repair shop; notification form.

64.If an insurer has a financial arrangement with one or more auto body repair shops or other repair facilities or a network of facilities for the purpose of repairing vehicles covered under physical damage, collision, or comprehensive coverages, the insurer shall not deny a person the right to select an auto body repair shop or other repair facility of his choice for repair of a covered vehicle, provided that such auto body repair shop or other repair facility elected by the person accepts the same terms and conditions from the insurer, including, but not limited to, price, as the shop, facility, or network with which the insurer has the most generous arrangement.  Prior to undertaking any repair, the auto body repair shop or other repair facility of the insured's choice shall provide the insured with written notification, in a form to be  established by the Commissioner of the Department of Banking and Insurance by regulation, that, by agreeing to have the auto body shop or other repair facility of the insured's choice accept the same terms and conditions from the insurer as the shop, facility or network with which the insurer has the most generous arrangement, the insured may jeopardize any manufacturer or dealer warranty or lease agreement.  Such notification form shall be signed by the insured prior to the undertaking of any repair.

L.1998,c.21,s.64.