According to the newest Consumer Price Index data released,  Auto Body repair costs have declined slightly with Auto Insurance rates increasing. See chart below.

Here’s a snapshot of current labor rates in Glendale,CA

In Maryland, there’s a trend going on where two “freelance” auto body men go door to door and point out damage on owners cars. They claim to be able to fix the vehicle right on the spot. Unfortunately their repair skills aren’t top quality. Click here for the story.

According to an article we found, a group of auto body repair shops are joining up to discuss a potential class action lawsuit against State Farm for steering. Click here for the story.

Last time I checked, these auto’s retail for about 1.5 million! This will be an interesting auto claim!

Each and every insurer has their own “total loss” threshold. This is the dollar amount in which the insurer deems a total loss. Some use 75% of the Actual Cash Value, others 80%. It really depends on the insurer and state regulations. With that in mind, this data shows the dollar amount of all total loss appraisals when they reach the “threshold” point.

According to this article we found, lower gas prices and more drivers on the road have led to an increase in auto claims. Click here for the full story.

One of the largest claims management providers in the U.S. had a $40M loss in the third quarter of 2009. The CEO cited the global economic downturn and fewer claims assignments? Click here for the full story we found.