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Auto Insurance Claims/insurance claim payment

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Question
Hi, I was rear ended the other day, I have already had a adjusted look at the vehicle, she said that the would send me a check. The vehicle is paid off, My question is do I have to get the work done by a body shop or can I do it myself. I was planning on changing the bed of the pickup over to a flat bed in the spring anyway. It seems like a waste to have a shop do all of this work, only to have me take it all off to do what I want. The check is going to be in my name, I just don't know what if any reprocussions could arise. Thank you.

Answer
If the payment is from the other driver's insurance company, you can do whatever you want with it and it is fine to do the work yourself.  The only potential problem would be if you find that you need additional repairs missed on the estimate - it might be a little more challenging to get them to pay for it - but you should still be able to do so.

If the check is from your insurance company, you would need to discus this with them before doing the work, since it might affect you coverage.

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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