Has anyone else had a problem with Progressive Insurance?

Question

So I got into a car accident. First they tell me that I have to take my car to a particular body shop, which I know they can't do because it's illegal. So when I choose the body shop I want to use, they give me a hard time about it. They say that the car probably won't be ready on time. Well, the car was actually ready on time. But then I get hit with the bills. Since when do I have to pay any more than my deductible? Progressive put all aftermarket parts on my brand new car, and they cut corners. Come to find out from the body shop that Progressive actually knowingly decided to cut certain costs by not doing the necessary repairs to make my car the way it was. Then I find out that a lot of body shops in So. Cal. are having problems with Progressive, cutting corners, and not inspecting the vehicles when they're done. Is any of this even legal?

Answer 1

If you don't take it to a Progressive approved shop, they are only required to pay the average value (as determined by them) for the repairs, you are responsible for the rest if you decide to take it to a non-apporved shop. You have the right to take it to anywhere you want, but, you don't have the right to make them pay more.

As far as not making necessary repairs, you can call them on it if it is not maintenance issue. (oil, brakes, tires.....) If it is one of those items, you will have to show proof that they were recently replaced and in good working order.

The aftermarket parts are authorized by most insurance companies. A lot of California Insurers now have an endorsement that allows you to have factory parts, but it will cost you.

Insurance companies are not required to inspect the vehicle once it is finished. It gets a list of what was done to the vehicle and makes sure that it matches what was recommended to be done at the beginning.

I know you don't want to hear all this since you are upset, but this is reality. The only thing you can really do is discuss it with an adjuster. Since it is Progressive, you may not have a local agent to discuss this with and help you through it. If you do have a local agent, talk to them

Answer 2

It's not just Progressive. The whole industry is doing it and the Cali legislature is letting them get away with it. I had the same problem with State Farm and a friend had it even worse with Farmers. AAA seems to be doing the best but you have to fight them also. Keep insisting and send a complaint letter to the state insurance board ( or something like that, forgot the name).