[RockSnake]

Quite honestly, I would not have commented on this thread, If rumors and myths were the source of my information.

I worked in the auto-body industry in the '70s...hence my labeling my information as circa 1970. I don't know the current state, but at that time, insurance would not authorize the use of new body parts AT ALL. At that time, federal statistics showed a dramatic increase in car thefts.

As to fraud; I know it exists, and I know it is used to justify increased rates. However, I have written letters, and personally called to report instances of fraud. Their responses could best be paraphrased as 'go away kid you bother me'.

Insurance is the classic example of a pendulum swing...or put another way; 'what goes around comes around'.

1) An ethical consumer has an accident
2) An insurance adjuster trivializes the issue and cuts every corner to keep his/her costs to a minimum.
3) In an effort to be treated in a humane manner, the consumer hires a lawyer.
4) A settlement is reached that must now include the attorney fees. This results in a settlement that substantially exceeds the cost of treating the consumer fairly in the first place.
5) The insurance company raises rates to offset increased costs.
6) Less ethical consumers and attorneys see the insurance companies as ready source of big bucks and file extravagant lawsuits.
7) return to step one.

FYI - I lived steps one through five. I never wanted to hire a lawyer, all I wanted was for life to return to the way it was before the accident.

LIkewise, not a personal attack. But I will always belive my personal experiences over any corporate propaganda.