Accident advice please!
 

ok, rear-ended at a stoplight today. ugh. definitely need replacement of rear bumperettes and rear panel of car. I was at a complete stop at a red light for at least 20-30 seconds, so thinking it will be 100% his fault.

questions that come to mind:

-who can best evaluate any additional damage? I don't want to rely on the bodyshop to really determine if any frame/engine damage occured, do I? Haven't talked to the other driver's insurance co. yet, what should I demand for evaluation?

-how do i find the BEST bodyshop to complete the work (chicago area recommendations would be fantastic)

-obviously now the car will have paintwork, crap. Anyone have experience with diminished value claims, I want to make sure I am made whole on this transaction (i'm located in illinois if that makes any difference

-Thanks so much for any advice, want to do this one by the book so i don't regret it later!

Normally the body shop as they disassemble the vehicle they will see more damage they will adjust the estimate. They can put the car on a jig and see if the frame still lines up. The rear of the 911 is actually quite strong, but I don't know how else to decide if there is any other damage but while repairs are being done they should notice things out of alignment.

Dave

Call Hans at RUF ( (1-888-783-6872, ext. 2). These guys ( in Dallas ) are used to repairing everything up to totally wrecked Porsches and Hans can tell you what your Chicago guys should be looking for. Good luck.

Also, by the way, Porsche repairs always seem to take 3 times longer than conventional cars so make sure the other guys insurance is going to cover the loaner for however long the repair takes.

Look to the Bright Side
 

Be thankful that this wasn't you.

Most insurance companies now have some sort of "formula" for diminished value and just cut you a check with no discussion. I suspect the formula will be a bit "light" for a Porsche 911. Maybe talk to your dealer and find out what if any effect it has on future CPO and they may also give you an idea of how an original car versus repaired car stacks up.

If you don't like the insurance company's number, you may have to get a lawyer involved and definitely have all your facts and support info ready.

I also think it is a given that if you are rear-ended it is the other persons fault in almost any case.

accidents suck. No one wants to buy a wrecked car so the value takes a 10-20% hit and insurance co will not pay for lost value. Also insurance will not pay for your lost time and pain. :(

You can get some referals from your Porsche service or check the body shops listed in your local Porsche clubs.