Auto Insurance Claims/Wreck/Claim

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Expert: - 9/17/2009


Question
I was rear ended. Police determined other driver at fault & other driver issued ticket. Insurance only wants to use rebuilt crash parts for a new bumper. My 2004 Yukon has a brand new engine & in great shape; I want new parts, not crash parts. No personal injuries. Do I have a case?

Answer
Hi Jason,

In most states, if a vehicle is over 1 year old or has more than 12,000 mile on it, the insurance company is allowed to specify parts other than new including aftermarket, rebuilt or salvage. About the only thing you can do is to pay for the new parts your self and then file suit against the at fault driver. Then IF you win the case the insurance comapny will have to pay the difference.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

Auto Insurance Claims

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Richard Hixenbaugh

Expertise

Auto insurance claims procedure, auto coverage, liability issues, auto damage questions, how to deal with the insurance company, loss of use and diminished value.

Experience

I have been involved in the insurance industry for over 25 years. I have experience in underwriting, sales, claims adjusting, auto damage estimating, auto value appraising and diminished value appraising. I have testified as an expert witness over 35 times.

Organizations
Society of Certified Auto Appraisers

Education/Credentials
Completed all required courses for the Florida Property-Casualty agents license and the Florida claims adjusters license. I have attended various courses on auto damage estmating, vehicle appraising and am ASE certified in collision damage analysis.

Past/Present Clients
My company has done work for consumers nationwide.

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