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Auto Insurance Claims/Claim
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Question
I had an accident about two months ago. It was the other persons fault, so I filed a claim against their insurance company. Finally after almost two months I get the check to fix the the damages. Although my vehicle has a lien against it. Since the insurance company wrote the check out to me . Can I fix the vehicle my self instead of taking it to the body shop?
Absolutely. The money is yours to spend any way you see fit. However, most estimates written by insurance adjusters based on the visbile damage are underwritten, by as much as 50% in some cases, so you may want to get a shop involved in settling the claim. There may be cost to you for their work on the claim, but your net settlement may be greater. Be honest with the shop and see what they think they can do for you.
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Answers by Expert:
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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