I was rear-ended recently, and now my trunk is crumpled with dents all over, the frame rail is bent, and the impact has pushed one side of my rear quarter out and the other side in. Unfortunately, all the structural components needed to restore my car—including the trunk floor, walls, and frame rails—are discontinued, making it hard for any shop to take on the repair. To complicate things further, my insurance won’t total the vehicle because I have classic car coverage valued at $50K. What should I do if no shop can restore my car to its pre-accident condition due to these unavailable parts? Should I consider involving a lawyer?
Got rear ended
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation with the rear-end collision. It sounds like a challenging predicament, especially with the discontinued parts. Here’s what you might consider doing:
Insurance Communication: Reach out to your insurance company and explain the situation in detail. Emphasize that the car cannot be safely repaired due to the unavailability of parts and that it may need to be classified as a total loss.
Establishing Repair Viability: If you haven’t already, gather quotes or assessments from shops, even if they initially declined the job. Documentation showing that repairs can’t be performed will be beneficial.
Replacement Value: Since you have classic car insurance, it’s important to understand how the value is assessed and argue your case if they remain adamant about not totaling the car. Ensure that they are considering the full insured value of your car.
Legal Consultation: Consulting a lawyer with experience in car accidents and insurance claims could provide guidance. They can help you understand your rights and options, especially if you feel the insurance company is not cooperating.
Consider Appraisals: A professional appraisal might provide evidence supporting the car’s value and condition, which could strengthen your case for totaling the vehicle.
It’s unfortunate that you’re facing this difficulty, and seeking legal advice may help ensure your interests are protected. Good luck, and I hope you find a resolution soon!