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Question
ok short version/ our son was rear ended by a drunk driver while sitting at a red light who in turn left the scene of the accidident and was apprehended 5 miles away thanks to a witness.the at faultdrivers Insurance company Geico reccomended a repair shop and we agreed and took car in to be repaired. car is a 2007 suzuki reno that suffered6,800 dollars in damage , including structural and suspension damage. 31 days later Geico appraiser called us at 4 pm the day before he demanded car be picked up and terminated our rental car. we picked up car at 8 am next morning. we took several pictures then left with car after closer inspection when getting home we found several blemishes in paint,a piece of molding was lost on highway,bumper falling off,tail light cracked, lift gate will not open. our concern after seeing this is how well the repairs are to the structural parts that we can not see. we feel really at a loss and are nervous to put our son back in this car.what is the course of action we should take ?also we are seeking the diminished value of the vehicle
Hi Dennis,
At this point you should call GEICO and the body shop and explain your concerns. It appears the shop needs to make corrective repairs.
The shop should return the car to pre-loss condition with regard to safety, function, and appearance. Make a list of your concerns and make sure you point out each problem in person to the shop manager.
You should not have to pay for additional rental while the corrective repairs are made. This should be paid by either GEICO or the shop. Ask GEICO who will pay the extra rental.
Regarding Diminished value, this is not guaranteed and depends on the extent of damages and your state law. I would call a few used car dealers and explain the damages in detail with a copy of the estimate in front of you, and ask their opinion. If you get three to say there is dim value, bring this evidence (with details) to GEICO and try to negotiate something.
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thank you very much for the response.We have since called our state insurance commissioner and dept.of aggriculture and consumer affairs(they regulate auto repair shops in our state) they have afforded us with a mediator to get our issues adressed.contacting these state departments really seems to have gotten the ball rolling.Great site and great service thank you, Dennis | ||
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Answers by Expert:
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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