The automotive industry is amidst a technological revolution but frustratingly the Motor Trade Association is regularly hearing that the collision repair sector is not always recognised when they are dealing with insurers.
MTA SA/NT CEO Darrell Jacobs said insurers were not consistently honouring electric vehicle and ADAS calibration requirements.
“Businesses are preparing their workshops and investing considerable time and energy only to find it difficult to negotiate with insurers about repairs involving these technologies,” Darrell Jacobs said.
“Automotive businesses should be supported to invest and train in the latest advancements and safety devices – not punished for it.”
To address these concerns, the MTA SA/NT held talks with the South Australian Small Business Commissioner.
“It was a positive meeting and the Small Business Commissioner will work through these issues, including reflection on its implications within the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct which is mandated in South Australia with penalties,” Darrell Jacobs said.
“Insurers should be resolving negotiations with repairers quickly and fairly to get motorists back on the road sooner.”
Eblen Collision Repairs Managing Director and MTA SA/NT Body Repair Division Chair Dario Tonon also attended the meeting.
“It was a fantastic opportunity to discuss how our industry can look for ways to continually evolve and innovate,” he said.