That's simply not true. I might agree in this case since the damage appears to be extensive considering the 11K price tag but simple sheet metal repairs with paint can really be "good as new".

I'd be looking at suing the guy for diminished value in this case.

 

man... that sucks. sorry. good luck with it.

 

The problem with auto insurnance (much like medical insurance) is the person who needs the claim always gets screwed. Your car will never be quite the same and you will NOT be subsidized for your agravation and loss of time you spend trying to get this all sorted out! Hiring a lawyer is the only way to go. They owe you more than simply fixing your car so it looks the same and drives ok!

 

That sucks bro, something similar happened to my Tegi before i got my S. If i was you id tell the insurance company to total the car, because the car will never drive the same again.

 

"Mental anguishment" is my new favorite phrase. While you're at it, you should sue for defecation of character and drunkitude while driving.

 

I very rarely suggest going to lawyers in most accidents, however this will be the exception. The only reason why I suggest a lawyer for this case is that the other driver was DRUNK, and that asshole needs to pay. As everyone has pretty much said, push to have the car totalled, $11k worth of damage means that he hit hard enough to bend the frame, which will never be the same again. You are also due for the inconvenience and cost of having to drive/rent another car for the time it takes for your car to be processed and for you to purchase another car (one of similar mileage and condition that YOU choose). Lastly you should also tack on any lawyer fees into the amount you pursue as again it was his fault and he should pay everything.

Lastly on a note, people please do not drink and drive. Even though it sounds so cliche, what if someone had been standing or walking where the OPs car was parked?

 

Can NEVER be re-enforced enough!!

To the OP, sorry man, that sucks, I'm sure everyone here hopes the best our of a sucky situation.

 

keep in mind the RESALE if a car with $11,000 damage will sux

If you were buying a damaged & repaired used car how much would you pay?

before you have it home after repair check for water and air leaks around the top and windsheild

Good luck

 

There goes the resale value. =/

 

Several years ago I was driving my 94 Accord Lx-i. I was making a left turn on a green arrow for me. A lady in a SUV, yapping on the phone of course, crossed her red light in the opposite direction and destroyed my Accord.
With such damage I had my insurance give me the full value of the car and bought somethign else. I would try to do the same in your case