Reader question:
I just got into a car accident and want to know how the insurance company will make the check for my claim?
Samuel
Jumping a little ahead of things, Samuel.
Filing and processing a claim takes time, so don’t expect to get that check right away. I know we’d all like, after getting in a car accident, to receive our compensation immediately, but what you’re most likely in for is a long process that involves negotiating, talking, repairing, quoting prices, and possibly hiring a lawyer. It all depends on where you stand in regards to the accident, whether you were at fault or not, and whose insurance company you’re filing your claim with–your own, or the other driver’s.
That is also the main ingredient that determines how you will receive your check from the car insurance companies. It depends on whether you’re going to your own insurance company or you’re going to the auto insurance company of the other driver, who was the one at fault. If you’re going to your own insurance company, then your check for the settlement of your claim will probably be made out to both you and the repair mechanic. This is because they are paying both yourself for damages but also the mechanic for the repairs made on your car. If you are going to the insurance company an of the other, at fault, driver to make your insurance claim, then the check for your settlement will be made out to you and you alone.
Cheers,
Fashun Guadarrama.
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Since there is no requirement for a person to repair his/her car after an auto accident, insurance companies have no business putting anyone’s name on the check except the claimant’s. There are situations where a bank or lienholders name may be appropriate, but never the name of a shop or technician.
We’re hearing a growing number of shops finding their names on checks a problem because consumers often endorse the checks (including forging the shop’s name), and the shop gets a W9 from the insurer for money it never received. The bottom line is this is not a good practice for shops, insurers or claimants. Insurers still owe full value for repairs on covered losses, and a consumer can fix all of the damage, part of the damage or none of the damage.
Click here for a slideshow on diminished value and learn how much value your car may lose after an auto accident and repair - even a repair that appears perfect.