Firkins Collision Center repairs vehicles on GEICO claims, whether the GEICO policy is yours or belongs to the driver who hit you. If you are dealing with a GEICO claim after a crash in Bradenton, Palmetto, Lakewood Ranch or anywhere in Manatee County, here is how the process generally works, what choices you have under Florida law, and how we help.
Firkins Collision Center is independent of GEICO. We do not claim to be part of any GEICO program. We work with all insurance companies and help customers with claim paperwork.
How a GEICO Claim Generally Works
Reporting the claim
According to GEICO's published claims information:
- Online reporting: Log in to your account, choose the claim type, and enter the state, date, time and a general description. GEICO says a claim examiner will then contact you.
- GEICO Mobile app: GEICO promotes filing a claim through its app in just a few minutes.
- Phone: GEICO lists (800) 841-3000 for help.
Have your policy number, accident details, photos and the other driver's information handy. Our checklist on what to do after a car accident in Bradenton can help you gather it.
Photo estimates
The GEICO Mobile app offers a photo estimate feature. It's convenient for getting the process started, especially for minor damage. Keep in mind that a photo estimate only covers visible damage. After a collision, the parts that absorb impact (foam absorbers, reinforcement bars, brackets and mounts) are usually hidden. We explain why in our article on collision repair estimates.
Network shops vs. your own shop
GEICO operates a repair network called Auto Repair Xpress and says network shops come with scheduling help and a guarantee on eligible repairs. GEICO also states that you can choose a shop outside the network; for a covered incident, it covers repairs up to the approved estimate, though its network guarantee does not apply. Ask your claim examiner to explain how payment and warranty work for the option you pick.
Your Florida Rights
- Florida law (s. 626.9743, Fla. Stat.) says an insurer may not require replacement parts that are not at least equivalent in kind and quality to the damaged parts.
- If an insurer specifically requires a particular repair shop, it must make sure the vehicle is restored to pre-loss condition at no additional cost to you other than as stated in the policy.
- You are entitled to a copy of the written estimate a partial-loss settlement is based on.
- Under the Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act (s. 559.905), repairs over $150 come with written estimate rights.
Read the full breakdown on our right to choose a body shop in Florida page.
Which Coverage Pays?
| If... | Coverage that typically applies |
|---|---|
| A GEICO-insured driver hit you and is at fault | Their property damage liability (you are a third-party claimant) |
| You have GEICO collision and were at fault | Your collision coverage, minus your deductible |
| The at-fault driver was uninsured or left the scene | Your collision coverage, if you have it |
| A storm, flood or falling branch damaged your car | Your comprehensive coverage, if you have it |
Confirm your own coverages with GEICO, since every policy is different. For the uninsured scenario, see our uninsured motorist claims page.
Questions Worth Asking Your GEICO Claim Examiner
- Will payment go to me, to the shop, or jointly with my lender?
- Do I have rental reimbursement, and what are the daily and total limits?
- If the shop finds hidden damage, how should it submit a supplement?
- Do you need to inspect the vehicle in person, or will you work from the shop's estimate and photos?
How Firkins Helps GEICO Customers
When you choose us, we handle the repair and much of the communication:
- Free upfront estimate at our Bradenton facility, 2700 1st St
- Teardown and inspection to uncover hidden damage before the repair plan is final
- Supplement documentation with photos sent to GEICO for review
- OEM parts whenever possible, plus an on-site Mopar parts department
- I-CAR- and ASE-certified technicians using frame machines, computer-assisted measuring and a dedicated paint booth
- Progress updates through every stage of our repair process
Convenience while your car is in the shop
We offer free loaner vehicles or help arranging a rental, a shuttle service, and complimentary pickup and delivery. If your car can't be driven, call our 24-hour towing line at (941) 749-1450 or read about our 24-hour towing.
Our own lifetime warranty
Regardless of insurer, Firkins provides a lifetime warranty on parts and labor for our workmanship.
Driver Safety Systems After a Collision
Many newer vehicles have cameras and radar sensors in the bumpers, grille and windshield area. After a collision, those systems may need to be checked or recalibrated. Ask your estimator how your vehicle's systems will be verified, and read our article on ADAS sensors after a collision.
Common Claim Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to report the accident.
- Leaving the scene without photos of the other car's plate.
- Assuming a photo estimate is the final repair cost.
- Cashing a repair check before confirming your lender doesn't need to sign.
Get Your GEICO Repair Started
Call (941) 229-6451 or request your free estimate. Hablamos español: (941) 357-5162. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, and Saturday 8:00 AM to noon. Need paperwork help? Visit our insurance claim help page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Firkins Collision Center with a GEICO claim?
Yes. GEICO's claims information says you can use a shop outside its network and that it covers repairs up to the approved estimate for a covered incident. Tell your claim examiner you want Firkins in Bradenton to handle the repair.
How do I file a GEICO auto claim?
GEICO lets policyholders report a claim online after logging in or through the GEICO Mobile app, and it lists (800) 841-3000 as a general help line. After an online report, GEICO says a claim examiner will contact you.
Is Firkins part of GEICO's Auto Repair Xpress network?
We do not claim membership in any insurer's network. GEICO notes that its network guarantee applies to eligible repairs at network shops, not to non-network shops. Firkins backs its own work with a lifetime warranty on parts and labor.
Does GEICO cover a rental car during repairs?
GEICO states that rental coverage varies by policy. Check your declarations page or ask your claim examiner, and ask us about free loaner vehicles or help arranging a rental.
Why did my GEICO photo estimate go up after the shop looked at my car?
A photo estimate only covers damage the camera can see. Once a body shop removes the bumper cover or panels, hidden damage to brackets, absorbers, supports or sensors often turns up. The shop documents it and sends a supplement to the insurer for review.
Wrecked, dented or scratched? Let's look at it.
Free estimates, help with your insurance claim, and a loaner while we work.