Expert: Bennie719 - 4/17/2008

Question
Repair facility usually picks up and delivers my vehicle after completing their work.  This time the backed into my garage doing about 3000 damage to the car and a couple hundred to the bldg.  Owner says he or his ins will pay (which I believe) --wondering what are my rights concerning getting it fixed -where, how much, quality, rental car, etc.
I understand I'm to get back to being whole -- on a used Mercedes what does that mean?  I already wasted 4 hrs chasing estimates and the repairs will take 7-10 days.  Any help appreciated.

Answer
Hi John,
Being made whole would be your choosing a quality shop to repair your car, being provided with a rental while your car is not driveable and being financially reimbursed for your time lost from work while securing estimates, etc.

It is normal and standard that used sheet metal and used bumpers be installed on your car during repair (after all, the parts coming off are used).  It would not be appropriate for you to try to demand brand new parts from Mercedes.

I hope this information has been of help.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.

Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area