Not Repairing Your Car? Here’s How to Maximize Your Insurance Payout

Let’s be honest, not everyone takes their car to the shop after an accident. Whether it's cosmetic damage, minor dents, or a payout that doesn’t justify the hassle, many drivers decide to pocket the insurance money instead of making repairs. In fact, industry research suggests that up to 30% of auto insurance claims are paid out without repairs ever being completed. But here's the catch: if you’re not fixing the car, you should at least make sure you’re getting every dollar you deserve from your insurance company.

Unfortunately, insurers don’t always make it easy. Initial estimates are often rushed, incomplete, or based on discounted labor rates from their preferred shops — not what it would cost you to repair the vehicle at market rates. And if you're planning to cash out the check instead of making repairs, that short estimate means you're walking away with less money in your pocket than you may be owed.

That’s where EstiVerify comes in. EstiVerify is an independent estimate review service that helps you challenge lowball offers from your insurer. Whether your car was damaged in a crash, by hail, or anything in between, EstiVerify can compare your insurer’s estimate to real-world labor rates, parts pricing, and industry standards, often uncovering hundreds or even thousands of dollars in underpaid claim value. You don’t need to repair the vehicle to benefit; you need to get the right estimate that reflects its true damage and the cost of restoration.

There are pros and cons to not repairing your car. On the plus side, you save time, avoid being without your vehicle, and may end up with money in your pocket. But be aware: unrepaired damage can reduce resale value, void warranties, or lead to claim denials in future accidents if the insurer says old damage was never fixed. If you have a loan or lease, your lender may even require proof of repair. So it’s critical to know your rights — and to ensure your payout truly reflects what you're owed, not just what the insurer offers.

Bottom line? If you’ve decided not to fix your car, that’s your choice — but don’t leave money on the table. Let EstiVerify help you get a fair, accurate estimate that holds your insurer accountable and maximizes your settlement. Because even if you're not fixing the car, you deserve to be paid what the damage is really worth.

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