Safe driving is an important factor in keeping one’s auto insurance premiums under control.

But when accidents do happen, having high-quality parts may minimize the injuries suffered by motorists, according to a recent report by the Hartford Courant. The report referred to research by Society of Collision Repairs national director and education commitee member Toby Chess, showing that name-brand bumper parts are superior to generic aftermarket ones, particularly when deploying an airbag.

This discovery may bode well for the auto-body industry, which would be required to recall and replace generic parts currently used by motorists. The auto insurance industry, however, charges higher premiums for expensive parts and would consequently be harmed by such a recall.

“I’ve not really heard of a case where an individual was killed or injured because their car had been repaired, so long as the repair was done appropriately, with an aftermarket part,” Robert Hartwig, president of the Insurance Information Institute, said.

The availability of generic auto repair parts has brought the cost of overall repairs down by making the industry more competitive, according to the III. Insurers may not require a consumer to pick generic or brand parts, and may offer an endorsement for their purchase.

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