05/07/2026
We have a few talking points we would like to discuss. This will be a long read.
First: WINDSHIELDS! We have been asked several times if we could put a windshield in now and complete hail repairs later. Technically, yes, BUT we don't necessarily recommend it. During the repairs if the windshield has to be removed to perform the repairs to adjacent panels, and the windshield cracks taking it back out, the insurance company's position is they will only pay for the FIRST windshield, the vehicle owner would be liable to pay for the second. So, if there is any way to wait, please do!
Second: Why are our estimates higher than the estimates the insurance companies are coming back with?
When your vehicle comes into our shop, we write for new OEM parts, nothing used or aftermarket. We also take the time to count dents on every panel, look for damaged trim, moldings and look up necessary operations to perform the repairs to OEM standards. The insurance companies are also currently overwhelmed. Their position is one of trying to get the groundwork of the claim started. Enough to get your vehicle into a shop like ours, to get the fine details of the claim dialed in. They also look for more affordable, used or aftermarket parts, depending on your policy. It is not uncommon for the insurance approved estimate to come in at half of ours or less. If this happens DONT PANIC! It is a normal practice. We perform a blue print process on your vehicle once it is in our shop for repairs. We document everything, look up oem repair procedures, check part availability and go thru your car with a fine tooth comb.
Third: TOTAL LOSSES. There are a TON of cars being written off as totals right now. Especially with shattered glass or if water got inside the vehicle.
What to do? If you want a new car, GREAT! Here's your chance!! The insurance company will make you an offer based off of what they consider market value. If you are happy with that offer, they will pay you, minus your deductible and take your car to the salvage yard.
Dont want a new car? There MIGHT be options for you. These options will vary depending on if there is money owed to the bank (lien) or if you own the vehicle outright. If you own your vehicle outright and want to keep it, ask your adjuster for the salvage value (aka buyback value). This is what the salvage yard is willing to pay the insurance company for your car in its damaged condition. In most occasions, the insurance will allow you to keep the car for this predetermined value, and deduct it from your settlement. Lets us some easy numbers for an example. If you have a car the insurance company says is worth $10,000. No matter what, they will take your deductible out of the settlement. Lets say your deductible is $1,000. That leaves $9,000. So if that salvage value is $3,000, they would take your deductible plus the salvage value out of the $10,000 and you could keep the car. That would leave you $6,000 to repair the vehicle as best as you can. At this point the insurance company is out of the picture and all repair costs are on you. If you have more questions about this option we are happy to help you navigate the process.
If there is a lien on the vehicle, the banks will generally not allow a buy back option. Especially if GAP coverage is involved.
Fourth: Rental Cars. If you have rental coverage, and can get one, the insurance company typically only pays for up to 30 days of rental. Some of these vehicles are bad enough it will take longer than that to get parts and repair them properly. Please plan accordingly! Once the 30 days is up, you will have to pay out of pocket for rental or car-pool.
We are so proud of our team here at Kirk's Collision Center. Marcia Wood and the rest of our guys here are working their butts off in an attempt to get estimates and answers to everyone! We are sending estimates and photos to respective insurance companies and doing the best we can in this mountain of paperwork!
We are proud of our clients as well. You all have been absolutely amazing.
