Newlin Law Areas of Practice
What Happens to My Car After an Auto Accident?
When you’ve been involved in an auto accident, it’s important you make a damage claim right away to either your insurance company, or to the other driver’s insurance provider (if the other driver was at fault). The insurance company investigating the claim will send an adjuster to determine what to do with your vehicle.
Will My Car be Totaled or Repaired?
The insurance company investigating the claim and paying out the benefit decides whether it’s more cost effective to repair, replace or reimburse you for your car’s actual cash value (ACV), or offer fair market value. This is determined by comparing the marketable value of the same make, model, & comparable condition of yours.
Normally, if appraised damages exceed 80% of the car’s actual cash value, your car will be considered a total loss (“totaled”). More often than not, once repairs begin, hidden damages are uncovered and add to the total cost of repairs ― even it it initially appears that your car can be easily repaired.
If the appraiser determines your car is worth repairing, the insurance company is obligated to restore it to the same condition that your vehicle was in prior to the accident. Insurance companies are not required to pay for new parts, they are only obligated to replace parts of equal age that sustained damage during the accident. If new parts are used, you may be required to pay the difference.
Who Gets Auto Repair Estimates?
You have the right to get several estimates and choose which auto repair shop will do the work, as long as that shop is licensed. However, many insurance companies will evaluate the cost of repairs based on their experience, and not on any one particular repair shop’s estimate.
Will I Get Rental Car Assistance?
If the wreck was not your fault, the other driver’s insurance company is required to offer you a rental car. You may have to pay the rental bill first and turn in the receipt for reimbursement.
Auto Accident Attorney
Before you settle your property damage claim with any insurance agent, call Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys at (407) 888-8000 and our team of expert attorneys will make sure you get fair compensation for your damaged vehicle.