If you file a covered claim under a coverage type with a deductible, you may have to pay the deductible prior to work beginning on your damaged vehicle or before you can pick up the car once repaired. Most car insurance companies require you to pay the deductible directly to the repair shop, while the insurer would pay the balance minus your deductible. This is why most insurance professionals recommend choosing a deductible you can comfortably afford to pay in the event of a claim.