If you encounter problems setting your claim:
- Contact your agent and share any supporting documentation you have.
- Check your policy for arbitration or appraisal services to help with disputes.
- Contact your state insurance department.
- Consult with an independent arbitrator or a lawyer.
When you file a claim, your insurance company will assign an adjustor to make a repair estimate on the claim. The adjustor likely will use Kelly Blue Book or the National Association of Automobile Dealers to obtain a depreciated value for your vehicle.
Know your rights to get the highest value for your vehicle:
- The claim adjustor’s figure is a benchmark for what they think the vehicle is worth. Get your own independent estimate from a certified mechanic.
- You do not have to sign the agreement for the insurer’s estimate. You should get at least one estimate on your own before agreeing on a cost.
- You can choose the repair shop you want to use. You don’t have to use a shop in your insurance company’s Direct Repair Program (a list of repair shops and dealers vetted and preapproved by your insurance company).
- You don’t have to use generic parts to restore your vehicle; you can choose to use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. However, you may have to pay the price difference if your policy is based on using generic parts.
- You can argue your case for the cost of repair with the adjustor. Have estimates to back up your claims along with any records on your vehicle maintenance or upgrades.
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