Your Collision Repair Rights in Colorado
Colorado vehicle owners have some protections that are stronger than what exists in many other states, particularly around diminished value claims.
If you're dealing with a collision repair in Colorado — whether it's an insurer steering you toward a specific shop, a dispute over parts quality, a delay you can't get answers on, or a repair that wasn't done right — Colorado law gives you concrete rights and multiple paths to resolve the problem.
This page covers Colorado-specific protections. For questions that apply across both states, see the main Consumer Help FAQ.
Colorado Diminished Value Rights
Colorado allows diminished value claims against the at-fault driver's liability insurer — even after a complete repair, an accident history reduces your vehicle's resale value. Colorado is more permissive on this than most states, including Utah.
Colorado FAQ
Can my insurance company make me use a specific body shop in Colorado?
No. Colorado law gives you the right to choose your own collision repair shop. Insurers may not condition payment of a claim on your use of a specific shop. If your insurer is pressuring you to use a preferred shop, that conduct may violate Colorado's Consumer Protection Act (Colorado Revised Statutes § 6-1-101 et seq.).
If your insurer threatens that repairs won't be covered unless you use their shop, document that communication in writing. File a complaint with Colorado's Division of Insurance at doi.colorado.gov/for-consumers/file-a-complaint. The DOI specifically accepts complaints about insurance steering.
Can I file a diminished value claim in Colorado?
Yes. Colorado allows diminished value claims against the at-fault driver's liability insurer. Diminished value is the reduction in your vehicle's market value after an accident — even after a complete and correct repair, an accident history affects what a buyer will pay for your car.
You are not entitled to diminished value through your own collision coverage. The claim runs against the at-fault driver's insurer. Document the accident thoroughly, preserve all repair records and invoices, and consult an attorney to evaluate your specific situation. Colorado is more permissive on diminished value than most states, including Utah.
How do I file a complaint about insurance handling in Colorado?
File with Colorado DORA's Division of Insurance. The DOI regulates insurer conduct in Colorado, including claim handling, steering practices, and parts disputes. Use their online complaint portal at doi.colorado.gov/for-consumers/file-a-complaint.
Colorado DORA: 303-894-7855.
Does Colorado require insurers to pay for ADAS calibration?
Colorado does not have a specific statute equivalent to Utah's 2020 ADAS calibration law. However, if the vehicle's OEM repair procedure requires calibration, insurers are generally obligated to cover all necessary repairs under your policy.
If your insurer refuses to cover ADAS calibration, document the denial in writing and file a complaint with Colorado DORA at 303-894-7855. ADAS calibration is now required on 28.3% of all repairable claims nationally. It is a standard repair requirement on modern vehicles, not an optional add-on.
What is Colorado's Consumer Protection Act and how does it apply to collision repair?
Colorado's Consumer Protection Act (Colorado Revised Statutes § 6-1-101 et seq.) prohibits unfair or deceptive business practices. This applies to insurance companies as well as to shops.
If an insurer misrepresents your rights to steer you away from a shop of your choosing, that conduct may be actionable under the Act. Document all communications. File a complaint with Colorado DORA and consult an attorney if you believe you have experienced deceptive conduct.
Colorado Regulatory Contacts
Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) — under DORA
The Colorado Division of Insurance regulates insurance company practices including claim handling and consumer steering. File insurance-related complaints directly with the DOI.
Phone: 303-894-7855
File a complaint with DOI →Need more guidance?