Expert: Bennie719 - 12/17/2007

Question
QUESTION: We have an 1986 Mercedes that our 18 y/o daughter drives. She was rear ended while preparing to stop. The insurance company of the person who hit her accepts responsibility but will only reimburse us $2600 for their estimated  value of the car and not repair it. We would rather have it repaired. It is in  excellent car except for the rear end damage. Our company offered to take care of the claim (we pay the $500 deductible)but I feel at some point it will affect our rates down the road. We would appreciate suggestions.

ANSWER: Hi Dave,
Since your daughter was not at fault, this accident will never have an affect on your rates.
In my opinion, you should have your own company repair the car.  Once they recover from the adverse company, they will return your deductible.
I hope this has been of help, please write again if you have more questions.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area 12-16-07 11:59 PM PST

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Bennie, do you think there is any way I can get the car repaired back to its original state without any out of pocket expense to me. I suspect the repairs ARE over the blue book value. I will revert back to my insurance company. Both companies in question are highly rated companies.

Answer
Hi Dave,
You are definitely going to be temporally out the $500 deductible, but your company will reimburse you when they recover.
The best way to 'save' your car is to have the shop replace all the damaged parts (except mechanical) with used parts or non-original manufacturer parts, which ever is cheaper.  After all, your car is 21 years old, the parts are 21 years old and it will be repaired just as well with 21 year old parts, at 1/3 the cost and no one can tell the difference.
Good Luck,
Bennie
12-17-07 12:34 PM PST