Can I fix my own car AND collect insurance money?

Malo

You can do this if the check is made out to you only (sometimes the insurance company makes the check payable to you and the repair shop) and depending on the degree of damage. Obviously, there are some things that a DIYer can't do safely at home. If you choose to do your own repairs be sure to keep VERY GOOD records of the repair and take the vehicle to your insurance agent for photos once the repairs are done. The last thing you want is to have another claim and the insurance company deduct the value of the old damages because you can't prove the repairs were done.

noelbutterfly

I believe you can do what you want with it...if the check has your name on it, it's yours

oklatom

Not without the permission of the bank if it's financed. Otherwise yes.

~ Floridian``

If the check is made payable to you, and you alone...you can do whatever you want. If they make it to you and a repair shop, you need to deal with them, whether they will sign it over to you alone. If they make it payable to you and a bank, because there's a lein on the title, you'd better repair the car!

fatcomo

Yes, the insurance company cutting you a check means the claim is settled. Its your money to do with whatever you want.

mama woof

If the check comes to you in your name alone then it is yours. Some insurance companies have a habit of sending checks in your name along with the auto-shops name, so you have to use that auto shops services. It depends on your insurance company and the state.

CwboyBill

Perfectly legal so long as you don't have a lien holder, (they are the actual owner). If the bank is OK with it then the insurance company doesn't care if you EVER fix the car. Be prepared to have all those prior damages deducted if you have another crash.

UCANTCME

AS LONG AS YOU ARE THE OWNER AND THERE ARE NO LIENS ON THE VEHICLE YOU CAN DO WHATEVER YOU WANT.

Welcome to Colorful Colorado

I think that there might a SNAFU in your scenario. If the insurance company decides that your car isn't worth fixing but is willing to pay you for the market value of your car and then salvage your title you then have to hand over your car to the carrier. You may have to look further into your case.

Fred C

In some places you can, some you can't. Talk to your adjuster. Remember, if the damage is structural, such as bent frame, and you aren't a qualified body worker, you may not be allowed to put the car back on the road without repair plans, photos, and certification. If it is just body repairs, again it depends on your state or province.

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