inspecting a vandalism or glass loss. Often appraisers overlook these items when doing their first pass at inspecting the vehicle.

On files inspected by AutoClaims Direct in 2011 here’s the breakdown of the percentage of replace vs. repairing of parts decisions.

New York, NY August 23, 2011

Inc. magazine today ranked Carlsbad based AutoClaims Direct, #1226 on its fifth annual Inc. 500/5000, an exclusive ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies.

The list represents the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy—America’s independent entrepreneurs. Online retailer ideeli tops this year’s list. AutoClaims Direct joins Spirit Airlines, television maker Vizio, Honest Tea, Dunkin Donuts and Metrokane, makers of the Rabbit corkscrew, among other prominent brands featured on this year’s list.

In a stagnant economic environment, median growth rate of 2011 Inc. 500|5000 companies remains an impressive 94 percent. The companies on this year’s list report having created 350,000 jobs in the past three years, and aggregate revenue among the honorees reached $366 billion, up 14 percent from last year.

Making the prestigious list for the third consecutive year, AutoClaims Direct placed in the top 25% of the list at #1226, with an extraordinary three year growth rate of 239%. AutoClaims Direct ranked # 25 in the San Diego Metro Region. Profitable every year since its founding, AutoClaims Direct has been recognized by leading business and industry sources for this significant and consistent growth.

“I’m thrilled at what we have achieved as a company and am thoroughly excited about the direction we plan to take AutoClaims Direct. We’ve assembled a fantastic group of claims and technology professionals who will help propel our growth to the next level.” said Ernie Bray, Chairman and CEO of AutoClaims Direct.

“Achieving such solid growth during one of the worst recessions in U.S. history is something we are really proud of. Our commitment to client service and technology innovation is something we are really passionate about. Teamwork, Technology and Client Focused service is an unbeatable formula for success.” Added Bray. “Our ability to mesh our technology services with high quality claims service has made us the clear leader in our field.

About Inc. Magazine

Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures LLC, Inc. (www.inc.com) is the only major business magazine dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies that delivers real solutions for today’s innovative company builders. With a total paid circulation of 710,106, Inc. provides hands-on tools and market-tested strategies for managing people, finances, sales, marketing, and technology. Visit  us online at “www.inc.com.

ACD’s Ernie Bray made a trip to Otay Mesa to visit the salvage yards. Many of these are connected to online parts search engines and are a great source for alternative parts.

This is a common question. Why is it taking so long to get the appraisal done? Well here’s the answer….

26.43% The vehicle owner is not available.

24.33%  Owner wants an inspection at a later time.

20.55%  Weekend or holiday in between

15.54%  Incorrect information provided by client

Here’s a snapshot of auto body labor rates in Los Angeles….

The CPI released today shows slightly higher costs for vehicle body work in the month of July.

According to this article we found, cybersecurity of electric vehicles will be a $144 million dollar business. Click here for the full story.

Always check the opposite side of a vehicle for indirect damage.

Here’s the average property loss data for 2011 by loss type. This is for damage to homes, fences, walls…..