Baton Rouge collision center to estimate vehicle damage

Both of their vehicles?

YOur insurance co will give you options for body shops.

Then you choose which ones you want to do the work.

If out of pocket, then that depends. Cajun Collision has probably the best estimator in BR. No bullshitter and tell you like it is.

I would get a few estimates, but they all seem to use the same program.

Also seems none will really total it out. The insurance adjuster will do that when he takes a look.

The repair shop likes to get them in the shop then find "unseen" damage and then total it out.

Not sure if they get to charge the insurance company for work done.

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Don't let auto insurance companies choose which repair shops you use, it's your choice on what repair shop to go to

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I said that. Insurance companies do their own estimates, give recommendations for body shops in area/availability, but customers can choose whoever they want.

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Don't let auto insurance companies choose which repair shops you use, it's your choice on what repair shop to go to

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I agree. A lot go through Progressive which has those claim centers were you drop off your car and get a rental. But I know a body guy who always writes the estimate a little over and gives you the cash back to cover the deductible, and does damn fine work.

I took their suggestions Ala team collision but I'd prefer to search my options.

All involved had insurance surprisingly based on the neck of woods I was in on airline.

Is it best to have the claims adjuster look at my vehicle first or take it to a shop and get their opinion? The insurance adjuster can't see frame damage and that's what I'm concerned with most. The other two vehicles involved were totaled

Cavins

Maggio Collision in Denham has done some good work for me.

I actually own a collision center in Zachary. Naturally, I would tell you my shop is the best. If you are looking for a shop in Baton Rouge, I would recommend Collision Solutions. The owner is likely the nicest guy I've ever met, and is very hands on with your vehicle throughout the repair process to make sure the job is done right.
As far as getting an estimate done, it really does depend on who the at fault insurance company is, whether or not you need to get one. As a shop, we start by working off an insurance companies estimate, and if we find more damage during the repairs, we request a supplement from the insurance company. I have heard of shops that get aggravated writing estimates, when they know insurance is involved. I've never really understood this, as an estimate only takes about 15 mins, and I've always looked at it as a possible way to gain a customer.
As far as choosing a good shop. There are a few good ones out there, but there are a bunch to avoid. I'd rather not call anyone out on a public forum, but would be happy to give you some suggestions if you wanted to email me. I could probably type a novel on what to look out for and what questions to ask a shop. The biggest factors as far as quality of work, are the type of parts used(aftermarket, remanufactures, used) and the type of materials used(paint wise). And in your instance if you are concerned about frame damage, it's important to make sure the shop has a quality frame machine and measuring system. Like I said, I'll be happy to help answer any questions you have, just let me know.

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The repair shop likes to get them in the shop then find "unseen" damage and then total it out.

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Why would the shops do this? They won't make any money repairing the car.