Insurance Adjustments for OSAGO and Spare Parts: A Delicate Balance
Insurance providers have been pushing to extend repair timelines for OSAGO claims and to allow the use of used spare parts when restoring vehicles. Their argument centers on a market strained by scarce parts and rising prices, a situation they say makes quick, cash settlements less fair to both sides. The Central Bank of Russia has publicly disagreed with these proposals, calling for a different approach to post-accident vehicle repairs.
In parallel, the Public Chamber is examining the issue more closely. A prepared resolution has been forwarded to the government for review, with expectations that the matter will receive discussion in the State Duma and receive broad public consideration.
Alexander Kholodov, deputy head of the committee, acknowledged the challenge in finding a policy line that respects the interests of both motorists and insurers. He noted the current economic pressures and the new realities facing the insurance sector, which require a balance between rapid vehicle restoration and fair financial compensation.
He pointed out that motorists should not bear the burden of extended repair periods. Legally, many vehicles must be returned within 30 days, and an extended timeline can be disruptive and highly inconvenient for drivers who rely on their cars daily. Yet he also emphasized the need to adapt to the present financial environment, explaining that insurers may require flexibility to repair vehicles rather than defaulting to cash settlements alone. The aim is to support practical repair outcomes while safeguarding consumer interests.
Public discourse around these proposals reflects a broader tension between immediate consumer expectations and the operational realities faced by insurers in a tight market. The debate centers on whether extending repair windows and permitting used parts would expedite access to functional vehicles, or whether such measures might undermine long-term vehicle safety and reliability. Stakeholders are calling for a solution that preserves fair compensation, incentivizes quality repairs, and maintains consumer trust.
Beyond this, there is a call to ensure that any policy shift does not disproportionately advantage one side. Proponents argue that a more flexible framework could help reduce downtime for drivers and keep repair shops viable during periods of market stress. Critics worry about potential risks to vehicle integrity or to the standard of repairs if cost-focused incentives dominate decision-making.
In this evolving landscape, the public conversation increasingly centers on practical outcomes for drivers, repair industry participants, and insurers alike. Questions persist about how to implement guidelines that clarify responsibilities, timelines, and acceptable materials while preserving safety and accountability. The dialogue continues as authorities weigh policy options and seek a balanced path forward that aligns with the needs of road users and the realities of the market.
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Source: Russian newspaper