Auto Insurance Claims: auto accident, fender bender, repair estimate

Question
I was in an accident two months ago, it was a fender bender and we said we would just fix the cars and not file a claim, we did call the police and there is a report, i did not hear from her for over two months and now she call and says it is 1,400. there was only a scratch on her bumper,is there a time period for her to get back to me, she could have had another accident in the last two months, i have pictures to show no damage to her car.
Debbie

Answer
Hi Debbie,

You should request that she provide you a copy of the detailed repair estimate. That way you can review it to be sure all damage is in the area of the damage you saw at the scene of the accident. You may also want to call the body shop to question them further about the proposed repairs.  You may also request that you meet her at the body shop of her choice to get an estimate. This way you can see every thing they are pointing out as being related to the accident.

There is no limit on the time she has to make her claim other than the statute of limitations, which in most states can range anywhere from 1 year to 4 years.

Once you reach an agreed price, you should have the girl sign a release form prior to writing your check. That way  she can not come back for more money later is the repair costs go up once started.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh