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What is the required law on getting estimates on a car that was hit. Are they required to give the other person 3 estimates?...

What is the required law on getting estimates on a car that was hit. Are they required to give the other person 3 estimates?...

Q: Does it cost money to get a quote on a car repair?

Generally, most auto repair shops offer free quotes for car repairs. However, some specialized services may charge for detailed assessments. It's advisable to ask about any potential fees before requesting a quote to avoid surprises.

Q: How is collision coverage calculated?

Collision coverage is typically calculated based on the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle, minus any deductible you choose. Factors such as the make, model, age, and condition of your car, as well as your driving history, can also influence your premium rates.

Q: Should you get multiple quotes for car repair?

Yes, it is advisable to get multiple quotes for car repairs. This helps ensure you receive a fair estimate and can compare the quality of service offered by different shops. Some states even have laws encouraging obtaining multiple estimates to support claims with insurance companies.

Q: What happens after insurance gives you an estimate?

Once the insurance company provides an estimate, you can review it and decide on a repair shop. You may choose to negotiate the estimate if you believe it is insufficient. After repairs are completed, the insurance company typically pays the shop directly or reimburses you based on the agreed terms.

Full question:

What is the required law on getting estimates on a car that was hit. Are they required to give the other person 3 estimates? Are they obligated to pay the lowest of the 3?

Category: Damages
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Georgia

Answer:

How many estimates are obtained is typically a matter of insurance practices, which vary by insurance company. Insurance estimates must be reasonable. If an insurance company prepares an estimate of repairs to your vehicle, the estimate must be in an amount reasonably expected to satisfactorily repair the damage. You have a right to a list of the repair shops convenient to you who will satisfactorily complete the repairs at the price estimated by the insurance company.

Some states have tried to enact statutes with protection for the insured. One propsed bill allowed the insured three auto body repair estimates from licensed auto body repair dealers of their choice, and the average cost of these three estimates would have created a "rebuttable presumption" in court that the average estimate is "reasonable."

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Do you have to pay to get an estimate on car damage?

Typically, you should not have to pay for an estimate on car damage. Most auto body shops provide free estimates as a way to attract customers. However, if you seek an estimate from a specialized service or if the shop has a policy of charging for estimates, you may incur a fee. Always confirm the shop's policy before proceeding.

How do collision estimates work?

Collision estimates are assessments provided by auto repair shops detailing the expected costs to repair vehicle damage after an accident. The shop inspects the vehicle and outlines necessary repairs and associated costs. Insurance companies may also conduct their own estimates, which can influence the amount they are willing to pay for repairs.