Car wrecks are among vehicle owners’ worst fears. Drivers and passengers could be hurt, and there might be extensive damage. However, we expect our car insurance policies to protect us. One New York woman is considering suing State Farm because she says they tried to wrongfully total her vehicle after an accident. Luckily, she had a group of auto mechanics on her side.

Car wrecks often lead to totaled cars, but not this time 

Auto mechanics at body shops are no strangers to totaled vehicles after car wrecks. However, according to Repairer Driven News, this was not the case with Brittany Rosario’s car when she took it to Metro Auto Body. Sadly, a truck had clipped her bumper, causing somewhat severe damage. Luckily, the shop was able to fix her car. 

However, like with many car wrecks, State Farm wanted to rule it a total loss. In fact, she says this was the company’s “main goal.” Sadly, many people with car insurance policies from State Farm would have gone along with this, but Brittany knew better. Luckily, someone from the body shop also stepped in. Her vehicle only had about 36 percent of the 75 percent threshold needed to be considered a total loss. 

According to the employee at the body shop, they have been in discussions with State Farm over this for about two years. He said, “Most of our disputes have to do with labor procedures and labor rates. Now that State Farm went from original or recycled [parts] to aftermarket, it’s been a consistent battle.”

Notably, State Farm first stated that the car was fixable. However, the issue arose when the insurance company only wanted to use aftermarket parts, often done after car wrecks. This practice would have voided the car warranty. Luckily, the repair cost was eventually covered by the at-fault party’s insurance. Still, Brittany is considering a lawsuit.