what to do about a fender bender?

[sam_gordon]

This. And since I manufacture parts of the system of car "bumpers" I'll also pipe in that I think that $1100 is a steal.

My brother-in-law was tapped lightly in a parking lot and the other guy asked if gotten a quote, could he just pay out of pocket the quote. He changed his mind when that small light tap was $2800 for the painted facia, the foam energy absorber, and the metal beam attached to the subframe underneath along with the labor.

Also in the OP, it was stated "he faxed me an estimate..." which I take as an itemized estimate from a shop.

Thanks. I missed that part. I'd still be a little concerned the guy has friends at the repair place that has no problems doing an "inflated" quote.

 

[MSLRAC]

Thanks. I missed that part. I'd still be a little concerned the guy has friends at the repair place that has no problems doing an "inflated" quote.

I seriously doubt that $1100 for the repair of bumper damage is inflated (especially if it's a newer vehicle). A girl barely tapped DH's bumper as she was pulling into a parking space and Essurance paid just over $1300 to have it repaired. If he was trying to fleece the OP, he'd be asking for a rental, claiming injuries, etc. I agree with the PP that $1100 is a steal!

 

[RCBA]

In general $1100 is spot on and not inflated at all. You are actually fortunate that it isn't higher. My husband and I own a body shop - parts at materials are sky high. The local bicycle shops get more $ per hour for labor than we do.

 

[SkaGoat]

Forget insurance and have him give you 2 estimates. You pay the autobody yourself, do not give him the money. You ask for a receipt for the work done by the autobody and give a copy to him.

You make me, the wronged go through all that I'm just putting it through insurance, it's your rates going up. I have no problem signing a receipt, or paper stating you paid $xxxx to cover damages, but I'm going to the shop I trust, not the shop, the person who ran into me likes.