QuestionHello, I was in an auto-accident this part mid-March in PA. I was rear-ended backing out of driveway but considered at-fault. Tried disputing liability to no avail. My vehicle towed to collision shop of my choosing (a recommended shop). This is a reputable shop and they asked for a supp on initial insurance adjustor's estimates which the insurance company agreed to. My vehicle was repaired (took about 2 months). The entire frame was replaced among various other repairs and replacements. The total work was around $16,000. My vehicle was in very good condition pre-accident, 2009 Nissan Pathfinder with less than 12,000 miles. The insurance company refused to consider a total-loss. The repair shop even stated they were surprised it was not deemed total loss but said "it is fixable." PA requires annual safety and emission inspections. This July we took it to Nissan dealer (where we've always gone) for inspection and they failed it stating "the vehicle was put together like putty and not safe. There is fiber-glass used everywhere." They agreed to write up a formal attestation as to why they failed the inspection. I plan to get this on Monday. My question is, do I handle this through my insurance company or only with the repair shop? My vehicle is now non-driveable since I have expired inspection tags. I am not sure what recourse I have with my insurance company. My claim shows as still open. Thanks.
AnswerNicole, Thank you for your question.
Sorry to hear of what you're going through but glad that PA has such a program to protect its citizens...I wish every state had similar oversight!
Without knowing exactly what the issues are, it will be difficult but here are some basics I believe will help.
1: If the issues are purely workmanship issues then your issues will be with the repair shop you chose and it's likely the insure will have little to offer in the way of assistance.
2. If the repair was performed in a manner as prescribed by the insurer (within their estimate0 then they could be held responsible... along with the repairer who followed their direction as to the improper methodology of repair!
The first thing I would suggest is to contact an Independent Post Repair Inspector in your are to inspect the vehicle and render an opinion as to the who, what, where and why and assist you in determination as to what direction you should proceed.
I would suggest a gentleman by the name of Charlie Barone. You can reach him at:
AutoClaimsHelp.net
Attn: Charlie Barone
P.O. Box 1012
Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355
610-722-0377 (Office)
610-722-9956 (Fax)
E-mail: Info@AutoClaimsHelp.net
484 614 7210 - mobile
'cbarone@bee.net'
Let Charlie know I referred him and Good Luck!
Barrett Smith
Auto Damage Experts, Inc.
