by hollywoodparris » Thu Apr 02, 2009 11:10 pm
I live in southern California.I was rear ended last week. The other driver is 100% at fault. The damage to my 05 Corolla's rear bumper is cosmetic and I would prefer to keep the claim money. I've done this before. I was paid $300 for damage that I later had estimated for over $1000. How can I make sure that I am paid an amount equal to what it would cost to get the damage repaired? My insurance policy is liability only. The other driver's agent wants to write a check to me then work out the diference with the repair shop. I know I would probably get better value if I had the repair done but I am currently in dire straits financially.
Posted: Thu Apr 02, 2009 11:31 pm Post Subject:
The other person's insurance company should give you a copy of their appraisal. Take it into a shop and see if they agree. Yes, there could be hidden damages that no one knows about and if you don't have the bumper removed you won't know. That is the downside about not having something like this repaired. Bottom line, it's your responsiblity to show that there are additional damages.
Posted: Fri Apr 03, 2009 09:09 am Post Subject:
The other driver's agent wants to write a check to me then work out the diference with the repair shop.
From the point of view of the other driver's insurer it seems pretty justified since they want to avoid confusions in the future. They want to make sure that you can't make a claim against the same damages in the future.
However, the best way to know what your claim is worth, you should get the damages evaluated by a mechanic. Next you may have to negotiate the amount with the adjuster.
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