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Auto Insurance Claims/Car repairs and insurance

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Expert: - 3/22/2010


Question
Hi,

I was in an accident and as a result went to my insurance company for an estimate for the repairs. They did their estimate and immediately gave me a check to cover what they would pay for (minus my deductible). I found the parts to do the repairs and was thinking of doing the repairs myself. My question is, can I deposit the check, use the money for the parts and repair the car myself?

Answer
Hi Joshua,

Yes. If the damage is minor and only requires the replacement of bold on parts then you can do it yourself. However if the repairs will require any welding, frame pull time or painting, then you will want to have the repairs done at an experienced body shop.

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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