Auto Insurance Claims: Whos Estimate Must I Use, parking lot security, security gate

Question
I live in Texas, and my car door was dented by a faulty parking lot security gate where I work.  My employer has assumed liability and turned it over to their insurance company for settlement.  I took my car to my preferred authorized dealer repair shop and received an estimate to fix of $1,050 plus 5 days car rental at $30 per day.  The insurance company sent out an adjuster who estimated the damage at $580 and 3 days rental at $35 per day.  As the car is 10 years old and the damage not so noticeable, I’d prefer a check I can cash rather than getting the car repaired.  What are my rights?  Must I fix the car, or if not accept the adjusters lower amount?

Answer
You do not have to fix the vehicle if it is paid off, but you must use the adjuster's estimate if you go that route.  I would ask for $40.00/day for rental just to see what they say.  Everything is negotiable, but you have to have a good reason for negotiating.  I will be happy to audit the estimate for you for free and let you know if you have any good way of getting more money for the repair.

If you opt to have the vehicle repaired, then you could have the repair facility negotiate for a reasonable repair amount.  I will also say that even if your vehicle is 10 years old, it might be worth mentioning diminished value, depending on the make, model and mileage.

I hope this helps!

JP