State Farm Auto Estimates – Clarification Needed
I was involved in a high-speed rear-end collision with a driver insured by State Farm, and they have accepted full liability for the accident.
I received a message stating, “The appraiser has completed your estimate. Once you receive your payment, you’ll pay the repair shop of your choice directly.” They’ve provided an estimate of $6,152 for repairs in an attached itemized PDF, which was prepared by a staff appraiser.
Does this mean that they have approved the repairs? I noticed that the repair costs exceed the actual cash value (ACV) of my vehicle, depending on the algorithm used.
Additionally, I know it might sound strange, but I’m feeling quite anxious about getting back into the car, especially since my last memory is being struck at a red light by a driver going 45-50 mph. Is it possible for me to simply transfer the title to them and use the funds to purchase a used car instead?
Just to clarify, I was completely stopped at a red light during the incident.
I won’t go into the details of my injuries, as my main concern is with the estimate and the claims process.
It sounds like you’re dealing with a lot right now, and it’s completely understandable to feel anxious after what happened. Regarding your questions about the State Farm estimate:
Approval for Repairs: Since they’ve indicated that the appraiser has completed your estimate and stated the amount for repairs, it usually means that they have approved the repairs. However, it’s always good to confirm with State Farm directly to ensure everything is clear and to understand the next steps regarding payment to the repair shop.
Vehicle ACV Concerns: If the repair costs exceed the actual cash value (ACV) of your car, State Farm may still approve the repairs if they deem it appropriate. However, if you prefer to go a different route, you can certainly discuss the option of totaling the vehicle instead of repairing it.
Using Proceeds for Another Car: If you decide you don’t want to return to the car due to the anxiety associated with the accident, you generally have the option to accept the payout instead of going through with repairs. You would likely need to return the title to the insurance company if that’s the route you choose. It’s best to talk to your claims adjuster about this to get clear information on how to proceed.
It’s always a good idea to keep open communication with your insurance representative—they can provide specific answers related to your situation, including how to go about getting a different vehicle. Take care of yourself during this process!