safety
Shortchanged by insurance: How to avoid costly surprises after a crash
By John Matarese at WXYZ Channel 7 (ABC Detroit) - News
· June 29, 2026
· 3 min read
Drivers who file a car insurance claim after a collision may be shocked to find the check they receive is not enough to cover the full cost of repairs.Lawrence Bailey learned that lesson after hitting an embankment and damaging his Mercedes."It bent the tie rod ... there is some damage to my whee...
Key takeaway "The repair bill came to roughly $2,900.
Why this matters in The Detroit
For Detroit drivers, the surprise of receiving a check that doesn't cover the full cost of car repairs after a collision is a harsh reality that can lead to financial strain. The fact that many insurance companies base repair estimates on aftermarket parts, rather than original equipment manufacturer parts, can result in costly out-of-pocket expenses. This issue is particularly concerning in a city where residents already pay significantly more for car insurance than the national average. As local drivers navigate the complexities of insurance claims, it's crucial to be aware of the fine print in their policies and to understand the differences between OEM and aftermarket parts. By taking proactive steps, such as hiring an independent appraiser, drivers can advocate for the coverage they deserve and avoid being shortchanged by their insurance companies. This awareness can help protect Detroit residents from financial hardship and ensure they receive the necessary repairs to get back on the road safely.
About this story
Original reporting by WXYZ Channel 7 (ABC Detroit) - News . The Detroit surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WXYZ Channel 7 (ABC Detroit) - News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 29, 2026 ·
Source: WXYZ Channel 7 (ABC Detroit) - News ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Drivers who file a car insurance claim after a collision may be shocked to find the check they receive is not enough to cover the full cost of repairs.Lawrence Bailey learned that lesson after hitting an embankment and damaging his Mercedes."It bent the tie rod ... there is some damage to my whee...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 29, 2026 by WXYZ Channel 7 (ABC Detroit) - News and curated for The Detroit readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by John Matarese at WXYZ Channel 7 (ABC Detroit) - News. To learn more about how The Detroit selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Detroit, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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