Should I Visit a Shop for an Estimate?
I recently experienced a hit-and-run accident with my car. Unfortunately, I can’t afford to keep it in a shop for a week due to bills and deductibles, so I’ve decided to take a payout and handle the repairs myself.
I’ve heard that it’s not advisable to rely solely on a photo estimate without a supporting estimate from a shop. However, my insurance agent has been a bit confusing. He mentioned that they typically don’t provide shop estimates for payouts and, even if I were to get one, they wouldn’t factor in the difference since “a shop not working with insurance may choose to replace parts instead of fixing them.”
So, should I still get an estimate from a shop, or should I just proceed with the photo estimate and move forward?
It sounds like you’re in a bit of a tough spot. Here are a few things to consider:
Shop Estimate Value: Getting a shop estimate can provide you with a clearer understanding of the actual repair costs. It can also support your claim if you need to negotiate with your insurance. Even if the insurance agent says they typically don’t consider these estimates for payout, having proper documentation can still be beneficial in case you encounter any unexpected costs during repairs.
Repair Costs vs. Insurance Payout: You may want to weigh the difference between the payout from the insurance and the estimate you receive from the shop. If the shop estimate shows that repairs will be significantly more than the payout, that may influence your decision on how to proceed.
DIY Repairs: If you’re planning on doing the repairs yourself, ensure that you’re confident in your abilities to handle the job and that you have access to the necessary parts and tools.
Photo Estimate: If you choose to proceed with the photo estimate, make sure to document everything thoroughly. Take detailed photos from different angles and consider any hidden damages that might not show up in photos.
Consulting Other Professionals: If your insurance agent is unclear or confusing, it might be helpful to get another opinion. Speaking to a different insurance agent or even contacting the shop directly to ask for their advice could provide valuable insights.
In summary, getting a shop estimate could still be worth it, both for your own reference and possibly as leverage in discussions with your insurance. Good luck with the repairs!