Got Rear Ended Today!!!! WTF

[FordRocks1]

:o Sorry to see this happen to you. As has been said, glad everyone involved is ok. I hope all turns out well for you. You know about how fast he was going? Looks like both cars were damaged pretty bad.

[tony356]

:o Sorry to see this happen to you. As has been said, glad everyone involved is ok. I hope all turns out well for you. You know about how fast he was going? Looks like both cars were damaged pretty bad.

 

Thank you.

 

Probably hit me going about 35. Speed limit is 35 and he locked his brakes for a bit before hitting me.

[swa737]

My expectation is the car will be repaired just like new. Ford/Shelby parts and flawless. Once Tony sees that it's the way it should be, then the romance continues!

[twobjshelbys]

who determines diminished value? if Geico is unwilling to total the car (only 50k - that all the coverage the kids has) then what chance do i have that the will come up with a fair diminished value? what is that value? %30?

 

what a mess

 

Who is your car insured with? They should cover the difference but may not in all states. Do you have uninsured/under-insured coverage?

[HARALD KELLEY]

Fixing it is always an option, and your choice. I completely disagree with having SAI do the collision repair, as they are NOT collision repair specialists. As my very good friend (and likely the best collision repair specialist in the state) told me about one of my cars..."if it's not shaped like a banana, I CAN FIX IT"...and he did.

 

I had a collectible automobile get into a severe collision, and although they could fix it...I opted not to. The insurance company knew I was entitled to diminished value even before i muttered the words. In my case, repairing the car+diminished value+rental exceeded the amount of replacement, but the choice was still mine to make.

 

 

 

Good point on the collision repair. They build them not repair them. To that end, if it is just panel replacement and paint, new letters etc, SAI could do the swap out I think. Again, really depends on the extent of damage not seen.

 

This whole thing really sucks.

[DubbsFaris]

Well, Tony said in a previous post a few up that the rail (FRAME) has been damaged. You know, it isnt a question about fixing it, it can be fixed. But how can you track a car that needs to be 100% when in the back of your mind you have to worry about relying on a frame that may have stress cracks or weaknesses that could simply break. This is a scenario that could be catastrophic driving at track speeds and puts all cars on the track at risk, and the lives inside of them. Tony paid for a Track car, not garage queen. While almost anything can be repaired to LOOK right, it wont be, and then there is the issue of value. Sure, they could give him some value of the car NOW, but what if he sells it in say 30 years, and the car would have been worth 250k but wrecked its only worth 100k and he takes a 150k hickey? Is the insurance company gonna come back and pay the difference then? I dont think so.

[HARALD KELLEY]

I missed the discussion on the rail (FRAME) damage. This is getting sooo painful.

[tony356]

it's getting really ugly with each and every phone call today. not sure my blood pressure can take another phone call of bs. the gecko adjuster tols me he already knows what the parts cost. when i asked what the rear fascia was going to cost from spp, he said around $200. i thought better of continuing the conversation and requested all additional communications be in writing.

 

if the think the car can be fixed goos as new then they can pay me in full, fix the car good as new and sell it for what they paid me. then they are not out a cent. put your money where your mouth is. if it is a good as new then the value is the same as new. if the value is less then new, then it is not as good as new.

 

massive amounts of bs.

 

if i had been closer to the car in front of me (which i never do) and not held my foot firmly on the brake pedal (when i knew i was going to get rammed) with all 24 calipers clinging tight to the rotors, then the front of my car would have been severly damaged as it crashed the car in front of me. i guess i should have hit the car in front of me and then the gecko would have to buy two $200 fascia's.

 

i'm the victim and i have to fight tooth and nail to get what is fair and just and what i had saturday morning - a new car!

 

fyi - if any of you guys have limited tort on your policy (like i had) get it changed. giving up my right to sue the kid that hit me is going to cost me far more then whatever the increased premium would have been.

 

i would have certainly sacrificed my '06 911 on saturday instead of this car. and with the engine in the rear the 911 would have been totaled for sure.

 

anyone know how i can program my tv to not broadcast that friggin lizard in my home.

[eagledriver]

Tony,

 

Man this really sucks! But no matter what happens to #111 you will always have THE trip with your daughter.

 

Andy

[tony356]

Tony,

 

Man this really sucks! But no matter what happens to #111 you will always have THE trip with your daughter.

 

Andy

 

 

Thanks Andy. I appreciate all of your supporting emails. I am trying to keep everything in perspective in this mess. There are many many things I am thankful for including the simple fact that I was able to purchase the car in the first place. As you all know, these are more than just cars for us. They are part of our life and so are the many great folks we meet because of our mutual love for cars. We are just car gals and guys and we understand the unspoken code. My trip with Amelia is something both of us will be able to cherish forever. I thought the "battle" in trying to get the car built was rough but this fiasco will take far more energy and patience.

Thanks again. I'm not canceling my June plans yet.

[2010 Grabber Blue Shelby]

i have a history of neck issues but right now i feel ok. we will see how i feel in the am. thanks for asking.

 

 

 

If you had issues before, this will just compound them, so get to a Doctor and Layer (Dewy Screwum and Howe).

[SVT NAJA]

Tony,

 

Generally speaking, Geico as the adverse insurance carrier in this equation isn't going to do you any favors ($200 for a rear facia? Gimme a break Sherlock). As such, I wouldn't let them get within a country mile of your Shelby (as in don't let them inspect it). Have you called your insurance company? You pay them a premium and they are experienced at these matters involving special value vehicles and uninsured/underinsured 3rd parties. They are your best hope to resolve this unfortunate situation in your favor. It may be excellent news that the right rail is crumpled. I would suggest that you aim to get a comprehensive damage repair estimate from an authorized Shelby shop that also has complete body shop capabilities (perhaps Tasca) that exceeds 70% of your combined total purchase price as this is the normal threshold for determining a total loss. With this in hand, I would have your carrier demand the surrender of the Geico policy limits from the 3rd party and then pay the difference to make you whole. Naturally, your carrier will retain salvage rights to your wrecked Shelby unless you want to make an offer. For the reasons DubbsFaris has listed, your carrier probably won't dispute your request. You can also leverage the diminished value (depending on Pa state law), loss of use and rental vehicle expense, but surrender those for a 100% "cash out" deal which includes any license and sales taxes you paid. With some deft maneuvering, I see a brand new GT350 in your future sometime next spring (or earlier if you find one in line at SAI for sale). Good luck!

[tony356]

Funny you mentioned that. My agent called this morning and could not commit to the resolution of the claim but told me not to sign anything with the shop and do not allow the shop of Geico to touch the car. Not sure if it means my company will fix or replace the car. To be determined.

[07SGT4578]

what a nightmare.

 

 

Chris

[MY500SS]

Hang tough Tony and get what you want and deserve.....................the fantastic car you had BEFORE this mess.

 

Good luck brother.

[one_quik_pony]

Funny you mentioned that. My agent called this morning and could not commit to the resolution of the claim but told me not to sign anything with the shop and do not allow the shop of Geico to touch the car. Not sure if it means my company will fix or replace the car. To be determined.

 

 

Absolutely! When I got smacked, the lying #*&^$%^# that blew into my driver's side door told the officer on the scene (I was standing right behind him) he just didn't see us. Later, he told his adjuster that I was racing against a motorcycle going over 80+ mph ! Thank the big guy for accurate police reports and common sense. Point of my rant is that his "story" held up my rental car and their admission of fault for four weeks. Fortunately, my insurance stepped right in, and started the process immediately (minus my deductible of course) until they could recoup their loss and my deductible from him.

 

The diminished value in my case was to be determined by looking at the cost of repair, previous value, and based on an appraised future value. There wasn't really any science involved, and it had to be agreed upon by me before settled.

 

They can most likely fix it like new. I would have justified it by having the car repaired, taking the wad of cash, and use the money for mods...while I drive the wheels off the car and not worry quite as much about dings and things. It would be like taking the appreciated value up front, rather than when I'm dead leaving a perfect car behind for my kids, or possibly the state, if the kids don't want to change my dirty diapers .

[Naa-V-Doc]

Tony,

There are two Main issues that I see - 1st. Your back and neck... 2. The Gt 350....

Your back and neck issues may not show-up until years later. The Gt 350 will have a neg. Carfax.

 

I would not speak with the kids Ins. Company again - Give it to your Attry. and outline ALL issues to him/her and let them handle it. It is better to have your legal minds work on this, for I am sure the big G Ins. Company will have their's on it or at min. the Big G will have their's at the ready.

 

And, driving a rental can be fun. May be there is a GT-H that is still in the fleet service.

 

All the best - Doc

[tony356]

Looking ugly. I'm gonna have to get back to the doctor. Not going so great.

 

Looks like repairing the car will be the only choice. I am going to send it back to Shelby. This is the only way to have a clean paper trail and be sure the car will be checked 100% for suspension tolerances and suspension mounting points. The car will see track time which means high speed, heavy loads and severe braking. An imperfect car could be disastrous. Thanks for all the emails and pm's. It is helpful to hear from folks that "get it".

[HARALD KELLEY]

Looking ugly. I'm gonna have to get back to the doctor. Not going so great.

 

Looks like repairing the car will be the only choice. I am going to send it back to Shelby. This is the only way to have a clean paper trail and be sure the car will be checked 100% for suspension tolerances and suspension mounting points. The car will see track time which means high speed, heavy loads and severe braking. An imperfect car could be disastrous. Thanks for all the emails and pm's. It is helpful to hear from folks that "get it".

 

 

 

Please confirm, SAI will do the collision repair or just insure specs and tolerances are met? Make sure you take care of yourself also.

[tony356]

a few more pics of my bruised girl.

[cobrakalas427]

Holy Crap!

 

Tony - I am so sorry to hear what a mess that you have been thrown into...First of all, I'm glad to hear that you are ok...I hope & pray that you don't encounter any future aches/pains/issues because of this accident. Secondly, I can't believe the amount of destruction that occurred because of someone's ignorance, not only what is visable but also what you are feeling inside and the anguish that you are going through with his "Salamander" insurance company. I agree that your legal counsel needs to do all the talking now along with those of your insurance company until you, the victim, are fairly and justly compensated for your loss which was of no fault of your own. Stay as positive as you can and know that all of us here are 100% with you in your future decision.

 

Alan

[SGT/SC#0471]

Holy fish sticks....man so sorry you have my understanding and compassion, glad youvdid not rearrange the kids looks or worse...i hope it all gets resolved to your liking and you recover fine. Unbelievably bad scene. Best thoughts man.

[GO-SVT]

So sorry to see this happen to you Tony. I wondered myself how the "post title" thing is going to go here. I have heard Roush owners say the insurance companies see those as "Mustang GT's" regardless of what the owners think..

 

Just FYI- regarding this quote:

if i had been closer to the car in front of me (which i never do) and not held my foot firmly on the brake pedal (when i knew i was going to get rammed) with all 24 calipers clinging tight to the rotors, then the front of my car would have been severly damaged as it crashed the car in front of me. i guess i should have hit the car in front of me and then the gecko would have to buy two $200 fascia's.

 

 

Be glad that did NOT happen. In many states if someone hits you from behind and you in turn hit the car in front of you, you become liable to the person you hit. Sounds crazy but it's true.

 

Whatever you do, don't stop going to the doctor until you are SURE you have fully recovered. Soft tissue injuries can linger for a LONG time. Get the best care possible and don't skimp. Do whatever they tell you and don't miss your appointments.

 

To anyone else with a car like this, you might want to insure the car ahead of time for full value and make sure there's "gap coverage" as well, especially if you have an outstanding loan on it.

[shelbymotorsports]

..

 

Just FYI- regarding this quote:

 

 

Be glad that did NOT happen. In many states if someone hits you from behind and you in turn hit the car in front of you, you become liable to the person you hit. Sounds crazy but it's true.

 

 

Absolutely true. The person that was in front of you would be filing an insurance claim or suing you for their damages. And the best part is that you would be considered at fault.

 

Steve

[speedyman]

Good luck with everything Tony. Hope your personal injuries resolve and the GT350 can be returned to full splendor. You have one of the all time great cars!

[tony356]

So sorry to see this happen to you Tony. I wondered myself how the "post title" thing is going to go here. I have heard Roush owners say the insurance companies see those as "Mustang GT's" regardless of what the owners think..

 

Just FYI- regarding this quote:

 

 

Be glad that did NOT happen. In many states if someone hits you from behind and you in turn hit the car in front of you, you become liable to the person you hit. Sounds crazy but it's true.

 

Whatever you do, don't stop going to the doctor until you are SURE you have fully recovered. Soft tissue injuries can linger for a LONG time. Get the best care possible and don't skimp. Do whatever they tell you and don't miss your appointments.

 

To anyone else with a car like this, you might want to insure the car ahead of time for full value and make sure there's "gap coverage" as well, especially if you have an outstanding loan on it.

 

 

Thanks. Just venting about hitting the car ahead of me. I do have agreed value but the car is not totaled. Where would I obtain gap coverage for a vehicle like this?

[SGT/SC2873]

makes me sick just looking at the pics! Hope it all works out for you Tony....Craig

[tony356]

Holy fish sticks....man so sorry you have my understanding and compassion, glad youvdid not rearrange the kids looks or worse...i hope it all gets resolved to your liking and you recover fine. Unbelievably bad scene. Best thoughts man.

 

 

A lot of folks have asked about my reaction to the kid. After the initial moment of making sure we were both ok, I instantly called my wife to let her know and my very next call was to Roger at Shelby to begin a plan of attack to fix/replace the car. To me, getting angry at the kids after the damage had already been done was waisted energy. Time to problem solve and look forward, not look back.

[tony356]

Good luck with everything Tony. Hope your personal injuries resolve and the GT350 can be returned to full splendor. You have one of the all time great cars!

 

 

Thank you very much.

 

By the looks of the ads cropping up selling these cars, I feel much better about probably having to have the car repaired. While I do not buy modern cars as investments, I did hope this car would hold it's value a bit. Being a repaired car will never have the same value as a perfect low milage car but maybe I'm not going to take as big of a hit as I once thought. Time will tell.

[tony356]

Please confirm, SAI will do the collision repair or just insure specs and tolerances are met? Make sure you take care of yourself also.

 

 

Yes. Repairs to be handled thru Shelby in Vegas. This is the best opportunity to keep a complete paper trail for the car. Not ideal, but making the best of a bad situation. Plus, I can get some newly listed mods done for the car while it is there.