Is it common for adjusters not to cover diagnostic costs?
I filed a claim for a collision, and the adjuster approved all necessary repairs. The vehicle looks fantastic after the body work, but the parking sensors are still indicating a fault.
The body shop ran a scan and identified an issue with the rear sensors. However, since the collision only affected the front, the adjuster has refused to pay for a diagnostic, even though the sensors were functioning properly before the accident and there haven’t been any other incidents.
My agent is working on escalating the matter, but is there anything else I can do? Is this typical behavior from adjusters?
It sounds frustrating to be in that situation, especially after getting the repairs done. While it’s not uncommon for adjusters to deny coverage for diagnostics that don’t seem directly related to the accident, there are steps you can take to advocate for yourself:
Document Everything: Keep thorough records of all communications with the insurance company, the body shop, and any diagnostic results. This documentation will be helpful in presenting your case.
Gather Evidence: If you have any records (like previous diagnostics or repair invoices) showing that the sensors were functioning properly before the accident, make sure to compile those as well.
Request a Second Opinion: If possible, get a second diagnostic from another competent body shop or a dealership. They might provide additional insight or confirmation that the sensors are related to the accident.
Escalate the Issue: Continue working with your agent to escalate the claim. They may be able to reach a higher-level adjuster who could reconsider the situation.
Contact the Insurance Company Directly: Sometimes reaching out to customer service or a claims supervisor can help. Be persistent but polite, and clearly explain the issue and your perspective.
File a Complaint: If you feel you’re not getting anywhere, consider filing a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner or seeking assistance from a consumer advocacy group.
Review Your Policy: Make sure to read through your policy to understand what is covered. Sometimes, the specifics of coverage can make a difference.
While it’s not standard for insurers to deny diagnostics outright, they do often look for evidence tying the repairs directly to the accident. Stay persistent, and hopefully, you can get the issue resolved. Good luck!