Damage to My Car: Lowball AI Estimate Issue
I’m in California and recently got into an accident where the other party was at fault. Their insurance company, Kemper, sent me a check based on a lowball AI estimate, which I haven’t cashed yet. After getting a quote from a repair shop, I found that their estimate is three times higher than Kemper’s.
I forwarded this estimate to the insurance company, but they want me to take my car to a shop so they can submit their own repair estimate and potentially request supplemental funds. However, I prefer to handle the repairs myself and am concerned about being shortchanged by their initial estimate.
I’ve read that “Under California law, the at-fault party’s insurance is responsible for covering the full cost of necessary repairs to restore my vehicle to its pre-accident condition.”
What options do I have?
It sounds like you’re in a frustrating situation, but you have several options to consider:
Negotiate with the Insurance Company: You can continue to negotiate with the insurance adjuster at Kemper. Present your shop’s estimate and explain clearly why it is a valid assessment of the repairs needed. Keep detailed notes of all your communications.
Obtain Multiple Estimates: If you haven’t already, consider getting estimates from several repair shops. This can give you a stronger case when negotiating with the insurance company, showing a trend in the estimates rather than just one.
Supplemental Claim: If you prefer to handle the repairs yourself, you can still submit the estimates you’ve received to Kemper and request that they issue a payment based on those estimates. Make sure to let them know that you plan to do the repairs yourself and provide any documentation they require.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records, including photos of the damage, the estimates you’ve received, and correspondence with the insurance company. This documentation can be helpful if the situation escalates.
Consider a Demand Letter: If negotiations come to a standstill, you might consider sending a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your position, the evidence you have, and the amount you believe you are owed.
File a Complaint: If you’re not getting anywhere with Kemper, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Insurance. They might be able to assist you in resolving the issue or at least investigate the matter.
Consult with an Attorney: If the insurance company continues to offer a lowball estimate and you feel you’re not being compensated fairly, consulting with a lawyer who specializes in insurance claims may be a worthwhile step. They can help you understand your rights and negotiate on your behalf.
Remember that you are entitled to the full cost of repairs to restore your vehicle, so don’t hesitate to stand your ground. Good luck!