Expert: Richard L Carranza - 6/13/2005

Question
I was in a car accident where I brushed the back bumper of the car in front of me and caused a 1/8-inch scratch in the others persons bumper, no injuries  – the cost to brush this out is between  $10 & $50 it was my fault and I have no problem paying for this. The other party wants to shoot his entire bumper for $250. I am trying to handle this with out reporting this to my insurance company. In your option is it best to just pay the $250 ?  

Answer
Suggest you ask the other party to provide you with at least two estimates from reputable body shops for your consideration.

You cannot expect the other part to possble compromise the integrity (structure, cosmetic, etc) because you want him/her to effect the necessary repair(s) "on the cheap".

If the other car is a 2000-2005 year vehicle I would recommend going with the lowest estimate provided and call it a day.  If the cars is a pre-2000 I would look for a lower repair estimate number and pay same.

Hope and trust that the above answers your question and provides some direction.

Please take the time to rate this response in the various catagories.


Thanks