Key Takeaways from the ABAT Webinar on Industry Innovations

The Auto Body Association of Texas (ABAT) recently hosted a webinar that attracted a lively crowd of 65 attendees. The session was packed with insights into the latest happenings in the collision repair world, focusing on new data tools that could change the industry landscape.

Exciting Announcements and Events

Jill Tuggle, ABAT's Executive Director, opened the webinar with some exciting updates. She introduced a revamped website featuring a new member portal designed to enhance engagement and networking opportunities. Tuggle also highlighted upcoming events, including the "Collision Day at the Capitol" in Austin, TX, on March 26, urging repair professionals to join in and advocate for their industry. Additionally, she teased the annual trade show slated for September 12-13 at the Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel & Convention Center.

BillableGenie: A New Era for Repair Shops

The main event of the webinar was a presentation from Sam and Richard Valenzuela of National AutoBody Research, showcasing the latest from BillableGenie.com. This platform is set to revolutionize how repair shops access and use paid claims data. By installing the app, shops can anonymously contribute estimating data, helping them gain insights into real-world pricing and labor rates. This tool is particularly useful for comparing data across different shop types, whether they're part of a Direct Repair Program (DRP), OEM-certified, or independent.

Using Data to Negotiate with Insurers

A hot topic during the presentation was leveraging data in dealings with insurance companies. Attendees expressed concerns about insurers dismissing data-backed claims. Sam Valenzuela addressed this by explaining how BillableGenie.com provides repairers with solid data to counter insurers' claims, showing what shops are actually writing and what payments have been approved nationwide. By 2025, the platform aims to compile 1.3 million records from over 500 shops, creating a comprehensive resource for the industry.

Transparency and Future Plans

BillableGenie’s approach to transparency was likened to gas price apps that help consumers see fuel costs clearly. Their tool, LaborRateHero.com, allows shops to input their own labor rates, giving them a clearer picture of industry trends. The updated platform lets users search for comparable estimates, empowering them to make informed business decisions and challenge insurer-imposed limits. The tool's user-friendly interface allows filtering by state, labor rate, and more, making it a powerful ally for repair shops.

Advocacy and Education: The Road Ahead

ABAT continues to champion advocacy and education, encouraging members to participate in legislative efforts and attend Capitol Hill Day. Looking forward to the 2025 trade show, members can anticipate a wealth of educational opportunities, including classes in Spanish to broaden access to vital industry knowledge.

With innovative tools like BillableGenie and ABAT's dedication to supporting repairers, the future looks promising for Texas repair professionals. As the industry evolves, these resources will be crucial in helping shops stay competitive and informed.