Where has the year gone? 2008 is 1/3 of the way over and data continues to flow in regarding current collision repair data. When comparing the first 4 months of 2008 to the same period in 2007, the following numbers stand out:

1. Average auto damage appraisal severity down $100.00 per loss.

2. Body labor hours have decreased 2.27 hrs on average per vehicle repair.

3. The average age of loss vehicles are 3.5 months older than a year ago. This may be evidence that owners are holding onto their automobiles longer.

4. The percentage of vehicles deemed total losses has decreased 3.29% this year

5. Average severity of comprehensive claims has increased 1.2%

Source: AutoClaims Direct Inc. 2008