Auto Insurance Claims/HAIL DAMAGE

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Expert: - 8/21/2010


Question
HI I HAVE OWNED MY 2001 PT CRUISER FOR ABOUT 8 MONTHS AND I JUST NOTICED HAIL DAMAGE TO THE CAR ON THE HOOD AND FENDERS ALSO THE ROOF. ABOUT 25 DENTS. I OWN MY CAR AND I LIVE IN PA.AND HAVE FULL COVERAGE  MY DEDUCTIBLES ARE 250.00. CAN I REPORT IT AND OPEN A CLAIM? IS THERE A TIME RESTRICTION? AND I HAD A BODY SHOP LOOK AT IT THEY SAID IT IS HAIL DAMAGE.  ALSO WILL THEY ASK ME WHEN IT WAS DONE?

Answer
Yes, you can make a claim.  They will ask for a date so do your best to estimate based on internet weather reports and your memory.  It is not unusual for people to not realize hail damage until a bit later.  The only time restriction would be a ridiculously long period, like over a year.  But this would be subjective - there is not set time period.

Auto Insurance Claims

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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.

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