How can one avoid accident management companies?

The subject of Accident Management Companies often crops up in your column. I consider that car owners can do much to put these parasites out of business by insisting that their accident-damaged cars be repaired at an authorised dealership for the particular make of car. Most dealerships will lend a car to the customer at little or no charge while his/her vehicle is being repaired.

Asked on 19 May 2012 by MD, via email

Answered by Honest John
Most car manufacturers are now offering their own 'accident management' services that exclude the cowboys and ensure the car is repaired to a standard that a franchised dealer would retail, thus retaining much more of its value than with a shoddy repair.
Similar questions
Yesterday, I was rear ended at traffic lights. I have the third party's phone number. He did not know his insurer's name and is asking to settle without reference to insurers. The damage to my 2000 Mercedes-Benz...
My insurance company, Hastings Direct, have referred me through to Auxillis for repair work and hire car following an accident. The other driver went into the back of me, but he is disputing liability...
My car was involved in an accident last week. It was being driven by a valet parking driver (driving towards Gatwick to meet us at the airport). My car has been written off and two other cars have been...