If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you understand how stressful this occurrence can be. Between personal wellbeing, potential medical expenses and everything in between, a car accident can really send you for a loop. And, during all of that, there’s the issue of your auto body repairs.
Sure, your auto insurance is in place in order to assist you with those repair fees; but unfortunately, most companies aren’t going to pay for all repair costs. Why? Because of betterment.
So, what is Betterment?
Let’s say your vehicle has 50,000 miles on it and tires that are 60% worn when you get into an accident. You severely damage the engine and two tires; these items must be replaced.
Most insurance companies are only willing to pay the cost of replacing your engine and tires with an engine and tires that are of the same worth as your pre-wrecked vehicle. But, where will you find an engine with 50,000 miles on it and tires that are 60% worn?
Chances are slim to none that you will find those parts. Even if you did, would you really want them? So, a new engine and a new set of tires will likely be used. Great! The insurance company will cover it, you think, right?
Not so. The insurance company is only going to pay out an amount that is equal to the value of the parts on your pre-wrecked vehicle. Therefore, you are responsible for the extra cost of your new tires and engine.
Why is that? Because by putting new parts onto your vehicle, you are hence making it “better” than its pre-wreck state, hence the term “betterment.”
How Do Insurance Companies Justify This?
Insurance companies claim that if they need to replace parts of your car then it is making your car better than it was. Since you would eventually need to replace parts anyway, if they’re damaged in an accident, you should have to pay part of the cost.
Certain insurance companies no longer implement betterment charges, however, you should consult with your insurance agent to see what side of the line your company falls on.
Can I Challenge the Betterment Clause?
While it may seem ridiculous and unfair, it’s legal and likely written into your insurance contract. Basically, insurance companies feel that it’s not their responsibility to supply you with new and better parts for your vehicle. Having written it into their terms and conditions, they will win if you challenge them on it.
Avoid Requesting Upgrades
One thing to avoid is specifically requesting upgraded parts during the repairs. If your alternator is destroyed in an accident, requesting a higher power producing replacement that costs more than the original will likely not be covered because you requested it.
Depending on the insurance company, they may allow for you to pay for the parts while they cover the labor if it doesn’t cost more in time than the original parts would have.
How Does Betterment Affect Auto Body Repairs?
If you did not cause the accident, some insurance companies may make exceptions to betterment charges. The insurance company of the person who caused the wreck may be held responsible for your deductible as well as the betterment charges.
It’s important to remember that betterment charges are beyond the control of the auto body shop. Please consult directly with your insurance agent regarding your policy’s betterment clause.
An Auto Body Shop That’s Prepared to Answer Your Questions
Because betterment charges affect our industry, our staff is prepared to answer basic questions about this clause. Please feel free to contact the friendly staff at Badell’s Collision today by calling (phone) or contacting us online. For more information on your specific policy, we encourage you to contact your insurance agent. Knowing your specific policy will prepare you for when you need to use it.
Badell’s Collision is a professional auto body shop serving Aston, Pennsylvania. Check out some of the services we offer. Read more articles like this one on our blog. If you need an auto body shop, contact us!
