Auto Insurance Claims: Insurance payout question, insurance payout, initial check

Question
I was rear-ended 3 weeks ago. The insurance company instructed me to have my vehicle inspected, then sent me a check based on the estimate amount. However, I'm worried that the total cost is going to be more than the check's value (they only did a visual inspection of the rear of the car, and I suspect there's more internal damage).

If it ends up being more, can I go back the insurance company and get more money? The paperwork they sent me does specifically say "full and final settlement for your property damage claim".

Answer
Hi Chris,

You should take the vehicle to the body shop of your choice for the needed repairs. You should give the body shop a copy of the insurance companies estimate as well as the contact information for the insurance company. Instruct the body shop to do a "Teardown" to determine the full extent of the damage. If they find additional damage the shop should then call the insurance company to inform them of the additional damage and to have the insurance company sent an appraiser to the shop to inspect and approve payment for the additional repairs.

You should not cash the initial check untill all of the above is complete and the insurance company issues a supplemental check either to you or to the body shop.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh