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Expert: Charlie Barone - 10/14/2009


Question
I hit the rear bumper of a 2007 dodge magnum while pulling out of a small parking lot and broke the tail light I am in los angeles CA.My insurance had temporarily lapsed and I am not covered. The woman repaired  her ethical and her insurance company sent me a bill for $2200. It was a tiny accident. Can she go to what ever mechanic she wants and they can charge what ever they would like? My mechanic said it was outrageously expensive. -please help

Answer
Repair costs are often much higher than what they would seem to be, based on appearance. The person you hit can take her car to any shop she likes, and you are responsible for paying the bill. Her insurance company probably sent an adjuster to prevent the shop from overcharging for the repair, so I would not be that concerned about that.

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Charlie Barone

Expertise

For questions involving auto damage claims, collision repair, forensics, industry practices, we can help. We specialize in claims for loss of resale value (Diminished Value).

Experience

I have 30 years experience in the collision repair and body reconstruction field, both hands-on and from behind the desk. I hold a Master Certification from ASE in the Body and Paint category, as well as their certification in Estimating. I have authored over 120 feature and training articles for the largest trade journal devoted to the collision repair industry, and have given expert testimony in court dozens of times. Licensed physical damage appraiser in Pennsylvania and reciprocal states.

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