Title: Dealing with Vehicle Damage and Insurance Challenges During Network Outages
Experiencing vehicle damage due to an incident involving a drunk driver can be stressful enough without the added complication of insurance system outages. Recently, I encountered such a situation when someone hit my parked car while I was asleep. Fortunately, the police apprehended the responsible individual and provided me with their insurance details.
However, the challenge arose when I tried to process the claim with Erie Insurance, the driver’s provider. It turns out that Erie’s online systems are currently down, possibly due to a ransomware attack or similar cyber incident. As a result, they’re operating using manual, paper-based processes that could extend outage durations for weeks. This raises concerns about potential delays in repairing my vehicle, which would keep me without transportation for an extended period.
Given the circumstances, I am considering whether it would be more practical to proceed with my own insurance provider, Geico, to cover the collision repairs. My plan would be to file a claim with Geico and have them handle the repairs promptly. Subsequently, they would pursue reimbursement from Erie once their systems are operational again. I am aware that my collision coverage includes a $500 deductible, but Geico assures that they will eventually recover that amount if they manage to recover funds from Erie.
For others facing similar situations, it’s worth weighing the benefits of swift repairs through your own insurer versus the potential delays caused by carrier-side outages. In cases where system downtime could significantly extend repair timelines, leveraging your insurance might be the practical choice to minimize inconvenience and get your vehicle back on the road faster.
