Automotive committee meets with FIO officials

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The Automotive Service Association’s Collision Operations Committee recently met with members of the Federal Insurance Office (FIO), including FIO Deputy Director Steven Seitz, to discuss auto insurance.

Committee members explained to the FIO the importance of the relationship between insurance companies and collision repair shops and consumers. They also discussed the importance of federal oversight of the insurance industry.

“We were very encouraged by the conversations we had today,” Scott Benavidez, the committee’s director, said. “The collision shop-insurer dynamic is often overlooked, but we were able to bring attention to the issues that directly affect our industry. We also had the opportunity to share our experiences with decision-makers on Capitol Hill and deliver the message that FIO does not need to go away.”

The Automotive Service Association also recently launched a research project into the repair process for aluminum body panels damaged by hail after the National Alliance of Paintless Dent Repair Technicians questioned the repair process.

The project will be led by the Collision Division Operations Committee, and the goal is to correct any misconceptions.

Research will be compiled from manufacturers, industry organizations, and collision repair professionals.

After the project is completed, it will be used as an industry reference guide.