You are here:

Auto Insurance Claims/Comprehensive/Collision question

Advertisement

Expert: - 10/10/2010


Question
Hi,

My car was hit and ruined pretty badly on the drivers side from the front bumper to the back end. It was parked on my street then I went outside the next day to all of that damange! anyway...I put my car in the shop with an estimated cost of 5k for repairs, then the dealer told me it was completed and 6800$ total...they also told me it would be ready October 20th now it is ready and I do not have all of the money. Can I just file a claim through my insurance or is it too late? I have full auto insurance.

Answer
Yes, you should definitely make a claim asap.  In the future, do not delay.  the insurer may question the cost of repairs since they did not have the opportunity to inspect the vehicle prior to repairs.  they might have been able to save a lot of money on repairs.

You can still make a claim.  They just might not pay the entire cost, depending on circumstances.  Also, this should qualify for uninsured motorist coverage, assuming you have this on your policy, which normally has a lower deductible and more benefits than collision or comp.

Auto Insurance Claims

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

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.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.