How to Handle Damage to Your Parked Vehicle When Insured by a Struggling Provider
Experiencing an incident where a drunk driver hits your parked car can be stressful enough; dealing with insurance complications can add to the frustration. Recently, I found myself in such a situation and wanted to share some insights to help others navigate similar circumstances.
The scenario: My parked vehicle was struck while I was sleeping, and thankfully, the police apprehended the responsible driver and provided me with their insurance details. The challenge arose because the driver’s insurer, Erie Insurance, was experiencing a significant outage, likely due to a ransomware attack or a similar technical issue. Their systems are temporarily offline, and they’re resorting to manual processes, which experts say could take weeks to resolve.
Given these circumstances, I am weighing my options: Should I proceed with my collision coverage through Geico to repair my vehicle promptly and allow Erie Insurance to handle reimbursement later?
Many insurance professionals advise that, in situations where delays might be extensive due to insurer outages, it can be practical to use your own collision coverage to expedite repairs. Typically, your insurance company will handle the billing and attempt to recover costs from the at-fault driver’s insurer afterward. In my case, Geico has a $500 deductible, but they confirmed that this amount may eventually be reimbursed once they successfully recover funds from Erie.
Ultimately, if you’re facing a similar scenario—particularly when your insurer is experiencing system outages or delays—consider whether using your own collision coverage might be the fastest route to getting your vehicle back on the road. Be sure to keep documentation and communicate clearly with your insurer about pursuing reimbursement later.
Navigating insurance claims can be complex, especially during times of corporate system disruptions. Staying informed and weighing your options carefully can help minimize inconvenience and get your vehicle repaired sooner.
