Auto Insurance Claims: Cash settlement?, lifetime warranty, cash settlement

Question
My car was hit in a parking lot. The person who hit me left a note.
The damage on my older car is cosmetic. Can I collect cash and fix the car myself?

Answer

ADE Logo   Sure...if it’s your property you can forgive the at-fault party, you can accept a cash settlement or you can demand that he pay for the full repair costs. You are under no obligation to repair it as it is a settlement to compensate you for your damages, not merely a repair.

I would get several quotes from reputable body shops, including one from a dealer and one from a quality independent, both of which will provide a "lifetime warranty". I would suggest you not go to a repairer he recommends for a quote unless you know of them to be an honorable establishment.

Keep in mind that the at-fault party may owe you other costs including loss of use or rental car for the period of repair as well as any loss in value your vehicle may suffer as a result of the damages sustained.

If I were the other party, at the time of settlement, I would likely seek from you a signed release for any further claims and/or demands relative to the loss.

I hope this helps you in your settlement.