I was in an accident Friday before last where someone ran into the back of my truck. His insurance has accepted fault and agreed to pay for the damage. The damage estimate is $1200 for a new rear bumper, pads, and mount. My question is do I have to let them fix it, or can I just take the money? I can probably fix it myself for $200 or so.

 

Don't know how it works in your state, but here in NJ, if your car paid up (you own it) the insurance company will send you a check. If you have a loan or lease on it (which will show up on the accident report) they will make a check payable to you and the bank/body shop.

At least thats how it worked out on my accident.

 

X2.

 

So if they make the check out to me and the shop, I can't cash it?

 

If your friend owns the repair shop anything is possible.

 

They're right...I handled auto claims for State Farm for 5 years. Anything less than $1500 was paid directly to the vehicle owner. It's your money, do with it what you want.

However, each state and company are different.