Question1. Had uninsured motorist strike right front bumper, scuffed and cover damaged requiring cover replacement. Elected not to repair or file claim.
2. Road debris (plywood) blown up off freeway pavement by passing truck in front of me. I struck it on left front of vehicle. Now have grille, light, and broken bumper cover on left side. Preliminary from State Farm is that they will NOT cover left side bumper cover replacement because of prior damage on right side. I maintain these are separate incidents, and that I want left side repaired.
What is my standing? Claims manager not yet contacted, was on vacation.
My rational: if prior damage had been repaired, bumper cover would have to be replaced with current damage.
Just because prior damage is not repaired does not change status of current claim, where cover must be replaced.
AnswerHi Ron,
Insurance companies often will take this position. The thinking is that if the part already needed to be replaced then additional damage to it did not worsen your position. This is however, a point of negotiation. You should adamantly object to this. Speak to a claims supervisor if you need to. They likely will nt pay for full replacement, but you should negotiate for something.
I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh
