Insurance ‘Short Pay’ on Car Repairs in Idaho
The insurance company's repair offer is too low!
A “short pay” happens when the insurance company (either yours or the other driver’s) offers to pay less than what it will actually cost a reputable shop to repair your vehicle correctly.
Their estimate might cut corners, leaving you to either pay the difference out-of-pocket or accept substandard repairs.
This is a common tactic to save the insurance company money, but it’s not fair to you.
- Kristian Beckett - Attorney
Look for these Red Flags.
The insurance adjuster tries to trick you into thinking that getting your repairs done at a “non-authorized” garage will be your out-of-pocket responsibility – but that is not true.
Idaho law has specific rules about using non-original equipment manufacturer (non-OEM) or “aftermarket” parts. Forcing them on (or implying you have no choice) you without your written consent can be an unfair practice. You have a right to know exactly what parts are being used.
The adjuster is insisting you use their preferred shop, which may not even be qualified to repair your vehicle, rather than a shop you know and trust.
Discover more red flags
They're calling your car a "total loss," but their payout offer is far less than what your car was worth.
Your car’s resale value dropped after repairs, and the at-fault insurer won't acknowledge and pay for the loss.
You were without your vehicle while it was being fixed and the at-fault insurer isn't covering your costs.
Should you request a case review?
If your situation sounds like one of these, it may be time for professional assistance. Before requesting a case review, check if you can say “yes” to any of these:
- The insurance company's approved estimate is lower than the estimate from your preferred, certified repair shop.
- The insurer is refusing to pay for specific procedures or is specifying non-OEM parts without your consent.
- You have a written estimate from a repair shop detailing the work and costs the insurer is refusing to cover.
- You have communicated this discrepancy to the adjuster, and they have refused to increase their offer to cover the full cost of proper repairs.