Against a back drop of recent changes to claims handling and repair provision by major insurance provider Aviva. Frank Byrnes of Frank Byrnes Autobody Repairs, an award wining bodyshop based in Oranmore, is highlighting the issue of free repairer choice for motorist in a media campaign.

Frank, who has built up a strong business based both on various insurance approvals as well as a healthy direct retail business,  believes it is important for motorist to be aware that they can choose who repairs their vehicle after an accident. He says, "It is your car and it’s your choice. Regardless of whether it your insurance company or the insurance company of another party that is picking up the cost, the motorist has the right to says where the vehicle is repaired.”

Frank believes that in the current economic climate it is also important for motorist to buy locally and support the local economy. He says, "Providing a repairer has the skills, expertise and equipment to repair the vehicle safely and effectively it makes perfect sense to choose a local bodyshop that you may already know and trust. Often insurers will point a driver toward a repairer that they don’t know and is not convenient for them and it is vital that they are aware of their rights when it comes to this choice. The driver always has the final say who repairs the car and I think it is vital that all repairers in Ireland put this point across.”