What to Do When Insurance Doesn’t Fully Cover Repairs
I’m in Georgia and recently had an accident where I wasn’t at fault, as confirmed by a police report and dashcam footage. I went through my insurance and took my car to a repair shop they recommended.
The damage was primarily to the front end after the other driver made an illegal U-turn into my vehicle. However, after the repairs, I’ve noticed that the alignment of the fender lines with the hood isn’t correct, and it now takes considerable effort to close the hood properly.
The insurance adjuster claims these issues aren’t related to the accident and insists that the damage was limited to the front passenger side. Interestingly, they did repair some damage on the opposite side of the hood (the driver’s side).
What options do I have if the insurance company keeps refusing to fully restore my car to its pre-accident condition?
Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about your situation. It can be really frustrating when insurance doesn’t cover the full extent of repairs. Here are some steps you can take to address this issue:
Document Everything: Keep thorough records of all communications with the insurance company, including dates, names, and details of conversations. Take clear photos of the damage and repairs for your records.
Review Your Policy: Check your insurance policy to understand the terms regarding coverage and repairs. This may provide insight into what you’re entitled to.
Request a Reassessment: Contact your insurance company and request a re-evaluation of your claim. Provide the dashcam footage and police report as evidence that you were not at fault, and make a case for the repairs needed.
Get a Second Opinion: Consider getting an estimate from a different, independent repair shop to assess the quality of the repairs and the damages. This can bolster your case when presenting your concerns to the insurance company.
File a Formal Complaint: If the insurance adjuster continues to refuse to address the discrepancies, consider filing a formal complaint with your insurance company. Ask to speak with a supervisor if necessary.
Consult an Attorney: If the issue remains unresolved, you may want to consult with an attorney who specializes in insurance claims or consumer protection. They can provide guidance on your legal options and may help you negotiate with the insurance company.
State Insurance Department: You can also reach out to the Georgia Department of Insurance to file a complaint. They may be able to assist you in resolving the dispute.
Hopefully, these steps will help you get the repairs you need and deserve. Good luck!