I need help

[bugsyc]

I am in Richmond VA. Here for a wedding...To make a long story short,the valet( I know but, there was really no other option for parking) they wrecked my car.Hit the wall straight on.Front end smashed,airbag deployed.He was obviously going to fast if that happened...I need recommendations for a repair shop here in Richmond...Also any lawyers or insurance guys out there,please advise me as how to handle this...I would hate to have it totaled but if it were,I would turn around and buy a MM from a member who has one up for sale that is supercharged...Please give me some guidance here guys..I'm very upset and don't really know what I should be doing....The Omni hotel has accepted responsability so that's not really an issue.For now...Being a sunday,we're waiting for Monday to speak with their insurance company...Any and all help would be greatly and greatfully accepted.....bugsyc :help: :( :help:

[SC Cheesehead]

I am in Richmond VA. Here for a wedding...To make a long story short,the valet( I know but, there was really no other option for parking) they wrecked my car.Hit the wall straight on.Front end smashed,airbag deployed.He was obviously going to fast if that happened...I need recommendations for a repair shop here in Richmond...Also any lawyers or insurance guys out there,please advise me as how to handle this...I would hate to have it totaled but if it were,I would turn around and buy a MM from a member who has one up for sale that is supercharged...Please give me some guidance here guys..I'm very upset and don't really know what I should be doing....The Omni hotel has accepted responsability so that's not really an issue.For now...Being a sunday,we're waiting for Monday to speak with their insurance company...Any and all help would be greatly and greatfully accepted.....bugsyc :help: :( :help:

Ohhh, go after this one hard, bugsy. Valet wrecks your car? I'm thinking lawsuit...

PM Blown 3.8 or Merc. They're further to the East, but may know of some good VA body shops.

Sorry to hear about the incident as well, keep us posted.

[MM2004]

Sorry to hear this man. :(

My G/F suggested going to AAA.com and looking up their recommended body shops in that area.

Charlotte has AAA and told me they only use '5-star' body shops which may give you an idea of what's down there.

If you need a customer number on their site, you can use Charlotte's.

Call me at 502 558-2912 if that is the case.

Good luck and keep us posted!

Mike.

[bugsyc]

Thanks Rex.you know how much I wanted to meet up with you all this weekend...If....If....if....my wife is felling my pain for insisting on attending her nephews wedding instead of heading over to your place...Hopefully I'll be at the next one with either my repaired MM or a new supercharged one....:confused:

[bugsyc]

Sorry to hear this man. :(

My G/F suggested going to AAA.com and looking up their recommended body shops in that area.

Charlotte has AAA and told me they only use '5-star' body shops which may give you an idea of what's down there.

If you need a customer number on their site, you can use Charlotte's.

Call me at 502 558-2912 if that is the case.

Good luck and keep us posted!

Mike.
Thanks Mike..I'll call if need be.:bigcry:

[fastblackmerc]

Have an excellent body shop here in N.C.

If the hotel has accepted responsibility...


Insist they fix it.... don't let their insurance company total it.
Insist on Ford Parts
Have them supply you with a comparable rental car, CV, GM or Lincoln.
Make sure your insurance company knows about it.
DO NOT sign any papers saying you won't sue until you car is repaired to your satisfaction.


Any pictures?

[bugsyc]

Thanks for respondind FBM...Fully documented.Pictures up the kazoo..Name of shop in NC you recommend and phone number address contact person etc. your opion is valued..thanks...bugsyc

[Marauderman]

Oh WOW--Sorry to here this --was hoping to meet you this weekend at Rex--but knew you were doing something else---

AM like others-- and what Rex has said--I'm thinking get car fixed first and then a suite--not the kind you wear--keep us posted--Tom

[bugsyc]

Do I really want my insurance company in on it if,the hotel is taking responseability???They are supplying a rental car and agree to flatbed my car to my home after repairs...my main concern is where to have car repaired so that it is done right..

[GAMike]

Sucks to hear about stuff like this...... Good advice all the way around guys..... The important thing is to keep them dancing to "your" tune, until you are satisfied......

[Mr. Man]

Have an excellent body shop here in N.C.

If the hotel has accepted responsibility...


Insist they fix it.... don't let their insurance company total it.
Insist on Ford Parts
Have them supply you with a comparable rental car, CV, GM or Lincoln.
Make sure your insurance company knows about it.
DO NOT sign any papers saying you won't sue until you car is repaired to your satisfaction.

Any pictures?
I'd check with a lawyer on suing anyway. Might be worth 10k to the hotels insurance co to make you go away. Think of it as free gas for a year:)

[PonyUP]

This sucks to hear. Having been in the Hotel business for over 15 years, there are a couple of things to know.

First find out if the Valet is a Hotel employee or an employee of a 3rd party parking vendor. If it's a hotel employee based on them accepting responsibility, it will be as smooth a process as possible, 3rd party vendor will complicate things but ultimately it comes to the Hotel's responsibility.

As such, there most certainly should be compensation on top of repairing your car. Do not leave this solely to the Hotel Management. They will need to involve their legal risk management counsel from the corporate office and you will want to make sure that corporate will back up the Hotel taking responsibility.

If I can be of any help, pm me. I wish you luck Bugsy

[fastblackmerc]

Thanks for respondind FBM...Fully documented.Pictures up the kazoo..Name of shop in NC you recommend and phone number address contact person etc. your opion is valued..thanks...bugsyc

The shop I use is:

Apex Auto Body Specialists
2465 Reliance Avenue
Apex, North Carolina 27539
(919) 363-7995

Darren Fridley is the owner. Tell him you were referred by me, Jim Marton with the black Marauder.

He loves my car....

He done much work for me on all my vehicles plus my daughter's cars and my son's cars

The shop is about 10 miles from my house, I'd be happy to check up on it if you take it there.

BTW... Darren will be repainting my MM in a year or so.....

[bugsyc]

I have to get on and off computer every 30 minutes.I'm using hotel bussiness center's comp and a swipe card.so I'm on and then off and then on

[robertmee]

I'm about an hour south on I-85 on Lake Gaston. If you get tired of sitting in a hotel and want to do some fishing, lemme know :)

[PonyUP]

I have to get on and off computer every 30 minutes.I'm using hotel bussiness center's comp and a swipe card.so I'm on and then off and then on

That particular Hotel should have an on site AV department and the hotel can and should have the AV company comp you a laptop, or provide one to you to use in your room

[Bigdogjim]

The only thing I would add is to have legal pad to keep note.

As much of pain in azz it will be write down everyone you speak to and details of what was said.

Nothing beats having note to refere too in case someone ghanges their story.

Get peoples names first & last and what their postion/instrest is with your accident.

I would also call for the local Police and get a report.

[FudPucker]

Unfortunately there's no way this is going to be settled without a lawyer. You have to be sure to specify that this car is no longer in production and is a collector's car. Not sure what your mileage is on it but I can tell you now, that any insurance company will not want to repair it if it's that bad. They'll call it a total and blurt out some ridiculous number. To them, it's just a Merc. Marquis.

You may just have to deal with an attorney where you're from. No doubt their insurance company is "National" and that's who you'll ultimately be sueing.

Unbelievable story. Just as bizarre as mine. Good luck with this.

[Mercguy04]

Just note of caution, If you are using there WIFI system to transmit sensive information,
remember they can and more than likely will read everything you send. It is to there
advantage to know what you are doing.
Since you are not at home, and using your system, you might consider getting a wireless USB uplink. Perhaps your cell phone co. can assist you there.
Information is power. Corps, run this country. The Gentleman who told you to keep a
record of who, what , and when you are in conversations with, concerning this issue is
very important. Your Counsel will want as much information as you can provide.
Remember this is a Civil matter, The burden of proof is on you, not them.
Best to you and your family. If they total the car see if you can buy it back. Part it out
and keep the parts you want and sell the rest. There is always unseen damage to consider as well. JMHO.
Russell

[DOOM]

WTF!!! What was the excuse or reason for smashing into the wall!?!?

[bugsyc]

Thanks for the replies guys...It's so good to feel part of club that understands that this is not just another car...I'm really beside myself in sadness about aLL this mess...I'm trying to maintain my cool after last nights fit that I threw....anyway,I'll keep you all posted...If anyone has a bright idea,bring it on...My dog is in a boarding kennel back home and we're already a day late getting back..,waiting for manana when corp. opens..thanks to all of ya.bugsyc :bigcry:

[Baaad GN]

Sir you NEED to file a police report to have an offical record, the first thing your Insurance Co. will ask is if you called the POLICE!!!!!!!!! Get them (Insurance Co.)involved as they will learn about it anyway. This will help protect you and if the Hotel admits responsiblity it will show on the Police report. Don't let anyone talk you out of calling, you might hear Oh it's OK we'll fix it etc but protect Your self!!!!!!!
Been involved in these situations before and learned the hard way, so please take my advice!!!!!

[LilCop2002]

Sorry about the late reply but I just saw this thread.

Are you still in the area? If so, let me know ASAP as my entire family lives in that area and could probably get you some help. PM inbound.

[Shaijack]

Sorry about the accident, valets are know for abusing vehicles. Take notes and pictures. Did you give him the red or black key? I agree DOOM what was his excuse.

Last accident I had I pulled a gun on the guy.(remember retired LEO) The cops there were shocked. 1932 Ford hit my 1934 Ford.

[bugsyc]

Thanks to all the members who offered helpfull suggestions....As of now,the hotel Omni Richmond,has supplied me with a rental car.My car is being transported via flatbed back to a Myrtle Beach auto body place of my choice..I'm waiting on the car and the appraiser...valet had no excuse,I never got to see or speak to him.The hotel has assumed responsability in writing.I'll keep you all posted..bugsy

[F8LBITEva]

Aww man. A rare car owner's nightmare!! HAng in there bud I wish you all the best. This is why I avoid places with valet parking like the plague.

[REAL4WD]

I am sorry to hear this! hope it gets resolved properly and in a timely fashion.

my truck got sideswiped while i was asleep and that was a mess dealing with insurance

[Motorhead350]

I was in an accident this year when a semi truck hit me. I suggest you say to them you just want the car fixed. Do not be a jerk about it and say "I will sue unless blah blah blah...." Just work with them. A police report is a must within 48 hours and you pretty much have to have the officer there on the scene unless you can drive the car. Even if you can drive, anyone involved in the accident must come to the police station with you... which is why it's easier for the police to come to you so no one bails on the way over, literally.

Just play it cool and tell them to get Ford OEM parts. You do not want paper thin reproduction parts, that's the only part I pushed when I was dealing with the truck driver.

Keep it cool, but stay on it. I am sure the hotel will cover it because going to court will only cost them more money. They (or the valet) was clearly at fault, there is no debate to this.

[bugsyc]

I just got a phone call from Omni hotels insurance guy..They changed up and reneged on shipping car...now they are talking about totaling the car..I haven't been given the figures yet...He also said there would be a buy back offered...Ofcourse depending on the numbers,if I did buy it back,how much could I resonably expect to get for original wheels with almost new tires,perfect seats,console,engine trans and whatever....It hit a wall,airbag deployed.From what I can see,,left front damaged,left headlight,bumper,grill and piece between hood and grill are what need tobe replaced.the rest of the car was not damaged...comments and suggestions PLEASE...Estimate to repair???:bigcry: :bigcry: :help: :help: :confused: :bows:

[MOTOWN]

You need to contact a competent lawyer, and if you havent already file a police report ASAP!

[RF Overlord]

From what I can see,,left front damaged,left headlight,bumper,grill and piece between hood and grill are what need tobe replaced.the rest of the car was not damaged...bugsyc, my sympathies man...

From your description, it doesn't SOUND that bad, but the front bumpers are expensive, so I dunno. I hope everything works out to your satisfaction...don't let the hotel railroad you. They are 100% responsible.

[MrBluGruv]

They are 100% responsible.

I can't stand how backwards the legal system is on issues like this.

How on earth is it fair to only be able to collect book value on a car you had no intention of selling or getting rid of?

Yes, I understand that on the fair market your car may only be worth say $8k, but how is it then their right to tell you how long you get to own it by wrecking it? Even if your car was worth $100, it's YOUR car and you are able to keep it running, how would you be expected to buy another working car for that amount of money? And even at 8K, let's say you had a spectacularly clean vehicle for your mileage, would you honestly expect to find a car of the exact same quality in terms of appearance and maintenance records for that "one-size-fits-all" payout mentality? And why should you be forced to adopt someone else's car because THEY destroyed YOUR property?

I see this on TV court shows and it bugs the everloving **** out of me. No way you slice it is this a fair shake. They seriously need to re-evaluate these laws...

[MM2004]

Originally Posted by bugsyc http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?p=1072484#post1 072484)
From what I can see,,left front damaged,left headlight,bumper,grill and piece between hood and grill are what need tobe replaced.the rest of the car was not damaged...

From what it sounds like, and only going by your words (no images) doesn't sound all that bad.

With the exception of the grille and blowing the bag, mine suffered about the same damge years back, and was about $4,000.00

No sheet metal or structure damage on mine either.

Again, just going by your words, and not sure if blowing the bag represents any structural damage or not?

Good luck and keep us posted.

;)

Mike.

[bugsyc]

I posted pictures of the car the way it sits.I can't figure out how to post them in this post but,they are the last few photos in my member gallerie 25562

25563
http://mercurymarauder.net 25563attach
25564

2556525562

[bugsyc]

I guess I got them on there.What do you guys think? Totaled? No Way..Any help would be forever appreciated...bugsy

[MOTOWN]

I would suuuu the hell out of em! some punk kid valet flooring your car

[bugsyc]

exactly correct.valet punched it and couldn't stop in time..

[fastblackmerc]

Doesn't look like a total.

[LilCop2002]

Bugsy, that doesn't look nearly as bad as I had imagined. Please call the number I sent via PM so that we can talk. My parents have given me some good information for your issue.

[hwy73]

P O L I C E R E P O R T + L A W Y E R. Don't sign/agree to any offer from insurance company at this point. They are trying to minimize their responsibility. I agree, it does not look totaled. Don't let that car out of your hands until this deal is settled to your satisfaction.

[LilCop2002]

I've been in touch with my family in the area and have good intel for you. I have also cross-posted to my police friends over at glocktalk.com and facebook for their help.

We'll get you through this.

[BUCKWHEAT]

Do I really want my insurance company in on it if,the hotel is taking responseability???They are supplying a rental car and agree to flatbed my car to my home after repairs...my main concern is where to have car repaired so that it is done right..

Your policy prolly requires 48 hour notification. You can alert your agent, and tell them to cool it if they will, until you have a deal. One reason is your risk of being sued by the drug-crazed valet jock for his whiplash incurred while driving your car.

[1 Bad Merc]

I hope you filed a police report........I would not let the car out of my control and would contact a lawyer and my insurance agent asap! Dont screw around or you will get the short end of the stick. Dont let them talk you into anything until you get all the facts. Car does not look totalled to me -looks very repairable.- just my .02.

[bugsyc]

A HUGE THANK YOU to all the members who helped me out. Special thanks to LIL COP and MM2004 for going the extra mile and the phone calls back and forth..As of now,I've filed a claim with my insurance carrier.I 'm having it towed to one of their preferred auto body shops in Richmond...Thanks to Julian I've tracked down some Marauder parts...Now I'll wait to hear what's going to happen...I'll keep you all posted...It was a great relief to have my MM.net family behind me in this...Keeping my fingers crossed for a just outcome...bugsy :bows: :hug2:

[SC Cheesehead]

A HUGE THANK YOU to all the members who helped me out. Special thanks to LIL COP and MM2004 for going the extra mile and the phone calls back and forth..As of now,I've filed a claim with my insurance carrier.I 'm having it towed to one of their preferred auto body shops in Richmond...Thanks to Julian I've tracked down some Marauder parts...Now I'll wait to hear what's going to happen...I'll keep you all posted...It was a great relief to have my MM.net family behind me in this...Keeping my fingers crossed for a just outcome...bugsy :bows: :hug2:

That's what makes this such a special place.

For sure, keep us in the loop.

[Da Dark Jedi]

Sorry this happen... I HOPE it works out in your favor.

[bugsyc]

I'm sure this will be of interested to members of MM.net.....I just got a call from the Omni's insurance representative....Actual Cash Value of my 03 Marauder 73000 miles = $11,550......damage was estimated as 6363.67....Sooooooo,they are going to have it fixed..Hip Hip Hurray....big relief...:D :D :banana: :bows: :bows::banana2:Big Thanks to all of you out there who took an interest and helped me out..This is one great club and terrific bunch of people...I'll keep y'all posted....bugsy

[MM2004]

I'm sure this will be of interested to members of MM.net.....I just got a call from the Omni's insurance representative....Actual Cash Value of my 03 Marauder 73000 miles = $11,550......damage was estimated as 6363.67....Sooooooo,they are going to have it fixed..Hip Hip Hurray....big relief...:D :D :banana: :bows: :bows::banana2:Big Thanks to all of you out there who took an interest and helped me out..This is one great club and terrific bunch of people...I'll keep y'all posted....bugsy

This is indeed good news!

I was concerned on how much damage your MM suffered from. (especially with having a bag blown)

Have someone keep a watchful eye out on the repairs, and by all means keep us posted and take pics!

:beer:

Mike.

[bugsyc]

Will do..Coudin in Richmond to oversee what all is going on ...Thanks again to all....I'm still on edge and will be until my car is fixed and is as good as new...Keeping my hopes up to a satisfactory outcome.....I'll keep you'all in the loop....bugsyc

[LilCop2002]

I'm glad it all worked out for you.

[PonyUP]

So glad they are fixing it for you. It sounds like at the end of the day, everything will work out. Like Mike said, keep us posted on the progress and let us know if we can be of any further help

[bugsyc]

I guess I can stop mopeing around and curseing the world out now...Thanks again for being there for me when needed....bugsy

[RacerX]

Make sure you take a look under the hood and scream: "What the hell!!! Where did my supercharger go????" :D

[PonyUP]

Make sure you take a look under the hood and scream: "What the hell!!! Where did my supercharger go????" :D

Lol, yes and I would also add "where's all the chrome"

[guspech750]

So glad they are fixing it for you. It sounds like at the end of the day, everything will work out. Like Mike said, keep us posted on the progress and let us know if we can be of any further help
You couldnt help a suicide jumper jump because you are so helpless!!!:lol::lol:

[PonyUP]

You couldnt help a suicide jumper jump because you are so helpless!!!:lol::lol:

:lol: Except when I jump, you're coming with me cause you will um, be attached :lol:

[bugsyc]

Are there any members close to the Richmond VA area that can check on my car??? :help: :confused: