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Auto Insurance Claims/vehicle damage in mud

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Expert: - 8/9/2011


Question
My daughter got her car stuck in mud on a dirt road there was damage done to the car. It was stuck pretty good. She had two flat tires trying to get unstuck and then the back bumper was damaged trying to pull the vehicle out and the middle cv joint on the front axle was damaged. The interior has mud in it from them trying to push vehicle out . Could you tell me what the insurance company will pay for I contacted a body shop today and they said to turn it into insurance should it be listed as comp or collision claim?  Equinox

Thank You,

Answer
It will depend on how the policy is written - they are not all the same.  Best thing to do is report the claim and ask.  Also read your policy to make sure it is handled correctly.

Most policies exclude damage to tires.  Bumper and cv joint will likely be covered.  Not sure about cleaning.

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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