Auto Insurance Claims/Auto claim

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Question
So, I made a claim and it was wrong. I though that my car had been vandalized in a parking lot. The insurance company sent a investigator and said no way. The made me go on record and repeat the same story. I just found out today what real happened. My wife was attempting top back up my truck with a trailer on it and it cased all the damage. Currently my truck is in the auto shop in pieces waiting for the insurance company to ok. Should I tell the insurance what really happened? Can I get in trouble even though I did not know what happened?

Answer
You would not get in trouble if you thought you were telling the truth.  You only have a problem if you knowlingly lie to the insurance company.  Of course, you have to consider whether they or the police will believe this was the case.  Also consider whether or not your wife was truthful.  Did she lie to the insurance company?  Knowingly presenting a false claim to an insurance company is fraud and a felony in most states.

I always believe that honesty is the best policy, so I would  come clean.

Auto Insurance Claims

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Claims Guy

Expertise

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Experience

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.

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