GMC Repair: 2002 GMC Envoy Inner CV boot, cv joints, cv boot

Question
Hello,

My 2002 Envoy SLT 4WD was recently hit by a drunk driver.  The vehicle has 68k and has followed the GMC book of maint.  The mechanic showed us where the inner CV boot on the front left side was torn and throwing green lubricant.  He also stated that since it was green that it was fresh and had not been driven.  He stated he has never seen this torn before, so it must be accident related.  The insurance adjuster is trying to call it standard wear and tear.  I am looking for anyone else's experience on this particular boots durability.  There is not much posted about it, so I can't believe that this is a big wear and tear item.  Any thoughts on this part would be great.
Thanks for the help.

Answer
Hi,Mark
 Though uncommon to rip or tear as these boots are pretty stout,i still have yet to see any inside cv boot wear to the point that it would tear especially in the 02 model years,i would say that its caused by the accident and would check the shaft itself that it is not bent,the shaft may be bent or out of round causing the boot to tear.The adjusters {and you can show him this} are there to save as much money for the insurance company as possible,his insurance book will say that CV joints and boots are normal wear and tear items when it is not accident related,i know this because i deal with adjusters on a daily basis,stick to your guns,this boot has failed due to an accident causing damage to the shaft.


ED