Spoiler: That Waiver You Had Them Sign Might Not Save You

We’ve seen it happen.

A shop skips a calibration. The customer signs a “waiver.” Later, there’s an ADAS failure. Now there’s a lawyer involved.

And guess what?

The waiver didn’t hold up.

What Doesn’t Protect You:

• “They signed a disclaimer.”

• “The insurance company told us to skip it.”

• “The customer didn’t want to pay.”

• “We’ve done it that way for years.”

None of that will stop you from being sued if something goes wrong.

What Does Protect You:

OEM Documentation

If you followed the procedure, and you can show it — that’s your strongest defense.

Proof of Denial

If the insurer said no, get it in writing.And make sure they know you flagged it as required, not recommended.

Refusal-to-Perform Statement (With Education)

Don’t just have them sign a waiver. Show them the OEM procedure. Explain the risk.Then have them acknowledge they’re aware the repair is incomplete — and that YOU advised against it.

That’s not a waiver. That’s documentation of informed refusal.

Big difference.

Final Word: You’re Not Asking for Permission. You’re Covering Your Butt.

The goal isn’t to argue with the insurer or the customer. It’s to say:

“We’re required to do this. If you won’t allow it, we’re documenting that we told you so — and you’re choosing to proceed anyway.”

It’s not just about liability.It’s about showing, clearly, that you didn’t cut corners.