If you’re a State Farm customer filing a glass claim, you may notice something new: State Farm now routes auto glass claims through Safelite Solutions, a third-party administrator (TPA) operated by the same parent company as Safelite AutoGlass. But what does that mean for you, the driver—and your ability to choose a local, independent shop?
Let’s break it down so you can make the best decision for your safety, your vehicle, and your wallet.
1. What Is a TPA and Why Does It Matter?
A Third-Party Administrator (TPA) is a company that manages claims on behalf of insurance providers. In this case, Safelite isn’t just replacing windshields—they’re also managing the claims process for State Farm and many other insurers.
This creates a potential conflict of interest because the company handling your claim may also be trying to steer you toward their own service centers.
2. Can You Still Choose a Local Shop?
Yes! No matter how the process is presented, you have the legal right to choose your auto glass provider. If you prefer a shop that knows your vehicle, your area, and your needs, you can absolutely say so.
When filing your claim, you may hear things like:
“We’ll have a technician out tomorrow.”
“We work exclusively with Safelite.”
“I’m not finding that shop.”
“They may not be able to recalibrate your camera.”
These phrases can sound final—but they’re not. Safelite may schedule their own technician by default, but you can request a shop you trust instead. Just say:
👉 “I’d like to use my preferred shop: KC Auto Glass & Recalibration.”
3. Why Some Customers Prefer Local, Independent Shops
We hear from customers every day who value:
- Personal service – real people, not call centers.
- Faster turnaround times – often within a couple of days to a week.
- Expert ADAS recalibrations – on-site technician trained by the Autel Training Academy, with years of hands-on experience.
- Support for local business – your dollars stay in your community.
4. Common Concerns We’ve Heard About Steering
We’re not here to bash our competitors—we’re here to educate and advocate for your right to choose.
Customers have told us they’ve experienced:
- Pressure to use a specific provider
- Being told they had no choice
- Vague or delayed responses when requesting a different shop
These subtle tactics are sometimes called steering, and they can leave customers feeling unsure of their rights.
5. What You Can Do
If you’re a State Farm customer—or insured with GEICO, Farmers, Progressive, Nationwide, USAA, Travelers, Erie Insurance, or Liberty Mutual—you’ll likely reach Safelite Solutions when you call about your glass claim.
But that doesn’t mean you have to use them.
Here’s how to stay in control:
✅ When filing your claim, immediately say you’re choosing your own shop.
✅ Tell them you’ve chosen KC Auto Glass & Recalibration.
✅ Let us handle the rest. Once the claim is open, we’ll take it from there—working directly with your insurance to make it easy for you.
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Did You Know?
Even when your insurer works with Safelite Solutions, you have the legal right to choose any licensed glass shop for your repairs—including your trusted local provider.
Conclusion
Just because your insurance works with a large national company doesn’t mean you have to. As a locally owned and operated shop, we believe you deserve transparency, choice, and quality service—every time.
Have questions about your glass claim?
📞 Call KC Auto Glass & Recalibration today—we’ll walk you through the process and get you back on the road safely and confidently.