Can I repair the my vehicle myself after receiving payment from the insurance company for the damages?

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Can I repair the my vehicle myself after receiving payment from the insurance company for the damages?

I was hit by someone and his insurance company sent out someone for the estimate. They mailed me a check for the damages and a three day rental voucher. I know someone who will fix the damage for much less. Can I have him do the work and keep the difference? And if so, can I use the rental voucher while he works on the vehicle?

Asked on March 31, 2011 under Accident Law, Missouri

Answers:

M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Did you sign a release as to the funds that were sent to you?  What does it say?  Does it say that you have to have the car repaired by a specific place or is the money that they gave you the fair market value, so to speak, for the repair work and you can have it done anywhere?  If you are not restricted to somewhere and you can get a better price then I am sure that you can keep the difference. Again, read the release.  But really make sure that the work done is the same that the estimate calls for.  And I am sure that the voucher is intended for use by you when the car is out of commission.  Good luck to you.


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