Getting a Car Accident Vehicle Damage Estimate

One of the most important steps in your insurance claim will be obtaining an estimated cost of damages to your car.  Your car insurance company will either assess the damage on its own, or require your to have an approved damage estimate as part of your claim.  If you think an estimate is unfair, you can get a seperate estimate of damages to contest a value you believe is too low and use the information in your insurance negotiations.

The Vehicle Inspection

If you have a right to collect for any repairs that need to be done to your damaged vehicle (your auto insurance policy will outline your coverages, deductibles, etc.), the auto insurance company is required to do a visual evaluation of damages so they can begin the process of determining the cost of repairs. Again, a quick look at your insurance policy will tell you exactly what is covered. Based on the damages and what is covered under your policy, the adjuster will provide a reasonable car accident estimate. The auto insurance company is not legally obligated to accept a higher estimate.

The best thing you can do if you have been involved in a collision is to participate in the evaluation and fully cooperate. It is perfectly fine to accompany the claims adjuster while he inspects your vehicle. It is important to point out any damage that the claims adjuster might miss, but keep in mind that extensive damage to your vehicle may result in a “total loss.” A total loss is a loss of sufficient size such that there is nothing left of value. This term is also used to mean a loss requiring the maximum amount a policy will pay.

A Totaled Car

If your car is declared a total loss, the auto insurance company is under no obligation to repair the damages, no matter how much you love your vehicle. What they are obligated to do is offer you a check for the fair market value of the vehicle. Fair market value is based on what the car would sell for under current market conditions, before the accident.

In the end, it might cost less money to pay the lower estimate now than to drag your feet and wind up in court. A judgment rendered against you can result in court costs in addition to damages and attachment of your wages and bank accounts. Not only can this hurt financially, it can harm your reputation with your bank and your employer.

Read more about car accident damages and payments in the following articles:
Types of Car Accident Compensation
What Is Your Car Accident Injury Claim Worth?
Who Pays for Medical & Car Repair Bills After an Auto Accident?

Case Studies: Getting a Car Accident Vehicle Damage Estimate

Case Study 1: Sarah’s Dissatisfaction With the Insurance Company’s Damage Estimate

After being involved in a car accident, Sarah contacts her insurance company to file a claim. The insurance company sends an adjuster to assess the damage and provide an estimate. However, Sarah believes that the estimate is too low and doesn’t adequately cover the necessary repairs.

She decides to obtain a separate damage estimate from a reputable auto body shop to contest the value provided by the insurance company. Armed with the additional estimate, Sarah engages in negotiations with the insurance company to ensure she receives a fair settlement for the damages.

Case Study 2: Mark’s Vehicle Declared a Total Loss

Following a severe collision, Mark’s car sustains extensive damage. The insurance company’s adjuster determines that the repair costs exceed the car’s value, declaring it a total loss. In such cases, the insurance company is not obligated to repair the vehicle but must offer Mark a check for the fair market value of the car.

Despite Mark’s attachment to his car, he understands that the fair market value is based on current market conditions and decides to accept the offer. Mark uses the settlement to purchase a new vehicle.

Case Study 3: Lisa’s Active Participation in the Vehicle Inspection

When Lisa’s car is damaged in an accident, she contacts her insurance company to initiate the claims process. She accompanies the claims adjuster during the vehicle inspection to ensure that all damages are properly documented.

Lisa points out any damage that the adjuster might miss, understanding the importance of providing accurate information. By actively participating in the evaluation process, Lisa ensures that the insurance company has a comprehensive understanding of the damages, increasing the likelihood of a fair and reasonable damage estimate.