Handling Vehicle Damage from an Incident with Unresponsive Insurance Companies
Dealing with unexpected vehicle damage can be stressful, especially when insurance providers are experiencing disruptions. Recently, I found myself in a situation where my parked car was hit by a drunk driver. The police confirmed their identity and provided me with the driver’s insurance details—Erie Insurance. However, I soon learned that Erie’s claims processing system is currently down, likely due to a significant technical outage or potential ransomware attack, and they are operating manually for the time being. This has led me to consider my options for expediting repairs.
In this post, I’ll discuss the potential approach of using my own collision coverage with Geico to get my vehicle repaired quickly, while allowing my insurer to pursue reimbursement from Erie later.
The Situation:
– My parked vehicle was hit by an intoxicated driver while I was asleep.
– The police obtained the driver’s insurance information, which is Erie Insurance.
– Erie’s digital claims system is currently offline, with reports suggesting it could be out for an extended period.
– Due to the backlog and manual processing, waiting for Erie to process the claim could significantly delay repairs.
Key Considerations:
– Speed: Using my own collision coverage with Geico could allow for faster repairs, minimizing downtime.
– Reimbursement: Geico has indicated that they will handle the claim and attempt to recover costs from Erie Insurance, including the deductible ($500).
– Risk: There is some uncertainty regarding the reimbursement process, especially if Erie’s system remains down for weeks.
Potential Approach:
– Proceed with filing a claim through your own collision coverage to ensure quick repairs.
– Keep detailed records and communicate clearly with your insurer about the incident and your intention.
– Allow your insurer to handle the subrogation process once Erie Insurance resumes normal operations.
Final Advice:
Before making a final decision, consult with your insurance agent to understand the specifics of your policy and the process for reimbursement in cases where the responsible insurer’s system is down. While using your own coverage can accelerate repairs, staying informed about potential reimbursement timelines ensures you are prepared for any eventualities.
Navigating insurance claims during widespread outages can be challenging, but prioritizing a timely fix for your vehicle is often the best course of action.
