Photos: warning - will make grown men cry

[Matt@BOS]

I'm not a very religious person, so I always wondered what people meant when they said, "God works in mysterious ways," well today I think I found out, and I think it really just means, "God took a huge crap on me Today."

Chris at Best of Show and I were working out the last round of gremlins on my '69. He fixed the laggy throttle pedal, a crimped vacuum line, and we had just finished bleeding the new rear calipers I ordered to help address my knock back problems. He takes it around the block with me and everything is great. There is no delay on the throttle, the brakes work as they should and don't have any air in the system. we get back, Chris hops out, and I get in the driver's seat. I'm psyched. I'm headed out to the track with the SoCal guys this evening. I pull out of the shop, wait at the light on the corner of the street for a minute, finally it turns green. I nudge the gear lever into first letting it make its familiar little clank, and ease the clutch out while feathering the right pedal. The car feels solid, everything about it finally exudes a natural quality about it. The steering is precise, the brakes firm, and the throttle crisp. I head out into the intersection, roll over the train tracks, and get almost through, then BAMMM!!! Some lady in a Saturn just blew through a red light. This light had been red for so long even Stevie Wonder would have seen it, but no, she just drove through that intersection like I never even existed. First thing I thought was "what the F*** are the odds of this. I couldn't have been in my Mustang. then I realized what Steve Rupp must have felt like...Ugh.

If you have sensitive stomachs, avert your eyes.
http://i366.photobucket.com/albums/oo103/69MSA/DSC_0672.jpg
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It's ugly but I walked away from it unscathed, without even so much as a single scratch, which makes me extremely fortunate. I think I really have to attribute it to some of the high end, well designed parts on the car. The Forgeline wheel that got the direct impact of the other car has minor scratches in the powder coat. That's it. It might be bent, but it sure as hell didn't crack or break, which is what I would have expected. The subframe might be tweaked, but it held together for the most part. On impact the control arms got pushed all the way into the headers and bounced back. It was the bolts that got pushed through the mounts though. Unbelievable. I would have figured everything would have crumpled like an aluminum can in an old car like this.

As for the preliminary damage report, I need:
a quarter, and we've got to remake the gill openings, front fender, headlight door, an entire RS nose, Marquez valance, Forgeline wheel, Anvil inner fenders and hood, headers, Ring Brothers hood hinges, and a new subframe. The list just goes on, and doesn't include tweaked fixable parts. Hell the entire car needs to be repainted. Hopefully the engine is fine, but it apparently made a horrible noise when Dick turned it over. Might just be the crushed header primary. Hopefully it is nothing more.

So for all of you out there reading this, make sure you have a good insurance policy. As upset as I am, at the end of the day the car is just a big metal money pit, and can be fixed. I think we all dread an event like this ever happening, and I can't express how glad I am to have an agreed value policy with Hagerty right now. That and my well being...

Matt

[camcojb]

so sorry to read this Matt, this really sucks. Very happy you're okay. What did the lady have to say?

Jody

[Steve1968LS2]

Welcome to my little club.. the membership is exclusive, thank God.. I heard you called Dick at BOS and said you'd been "Rupped"..

Glad you are ok, the guys at BOS will have her back better than new in no time.

Just remember to keep a good attitude and let me know if I can help in any way at all.

I heard the front spoiler survived.. in other words look at the positive.

If the engine has any issues (which I doubt) I will help ya get that sorted out. More than likely part of the drive system is hitting part of the frame/rack.

Again, glad you are ok, metal can be fixed.

Sorry to hear she had Mercury Insurance.. but Hagerty will make sure you are ok.

Might be time for another insurance story and sorry about the accident.. huge buzz-kill bummer.

[BBC71Nova]

women drivers :willy: Somebody had to say it :)

Seriously at least you're OK and the car's in good hands.

[awr68]

OMG!!!!!!!!! :faint:
Matt, I can't tell you how sorry I am to hear/see this! After all you guys went through trying to get to SEMA last year, and then taking your time sorting the car out this year, and now this! I just can't believe it!

Bottom line is that you are ok....and that's most important!

From the pics it looks like the one-off front spoiler is ok? <---- I'm trying to find more positives here! :(

[Musclerodz]

Holy crap! I feel for you,and glad your ok. Looks like a lot of expensive carange

[skatinjay27]

holy shi* matt! you werent kidding with the grown men cry comment, i was scared to scroll down.

but like mention above glad your OK

[Steve1968LS2]

Yea, I feel safer on any track or autocross track compared to driving on the highways with "joe public" (or josephine in this case)

Car will bounce back better than ever..

[ElkyZO6]

Sorry about your car. It is by the grace of god that you walked away unhurt.

[rwhite692]

Damn, Matt....So sorry to hear, but most importantly, glad to hear you are OK.

[Mkelcy]

Did she backup and hit you again?

[69sponge]

Matt, glad your ok.......hang in there bro.

[Sideshow]

Glad your OK. Cars can be replaced no matter how much we love them.

[69x22]

Wow! I am glad you are OK.

[Jr]

Matt,

This is terrible. The good new is that you are alright. Also, you are handling this much better than I would. The guys at BOS will get that Camaro right where it was before this whole thing happened.

[Matt@BOS]

Did she backup and hit you again?

yeah really! I think what happened is that she hit me, and did so with enough force to push my car to the left, making the tail kick out into her car.

[phillym5]

Holy ****!! That is insane. Unbelievable really. Did you take your shoe off and smack the lady silly?? I would have have. That sucks, man. I was looking forward to getting our camaro's together. Damn..its going to be a while now.
Was the lady alright?
Also.. glad to hear you came out unscathed. Looks like she spun you around. That steel couldn't have been nice to her car!! How fast was she going?

[Tuske427]

Sorry to read about this, and, looking at the bright side- it could have been worse. Hopefully everything will turn out OK for you.

[redfire69]

Wow, your title is right. Glad you're OK too. My hat off to you for staying positive!

[tmadden]

I'm speechless. The situation sucks, the timing sucks and the time without the car really really sucks!!!

[cees67]

wow!! really is my worst fear running around on the streets.....its scary to see someone staring at your car and not the road ,people dont take driving serious ...glad your ok man!

[XcYZ]

That is just sickening. When can you start ordering new parts? Her insurance agent is gonna crap when the bill arrives.

[MarkM66]

She was probably sending a very important text message at the time. :rolleyes:

[DOOM]

Matt........ Sorry! Thats all I can say!!!!! If for any reason you need paint products for this car (ANYTHING) please don't hesitate to give me a call!!! It sounds like you have it handled though. I'll help in any way I can to get my fellow BRO TOURER back on the raod...:D

[DOOM]

She was probably sending a very important text message at the time. :rolleyes:

Mark its funny you say that... The last four accidents that I recieved in my shop were do to cell phone or texting while driving!!! I get aleast one a month usually thats one to many!!!

[Ron Fox]

Wow. Sorry to hear about your car Matt. This is my fear about building a car and driving it on the streets. Good to hear that you are OK and that Hagerty will be taking care of you. I am interested in how Hagerty treats you so please let us know. Hang in there. Now is the time to change anything on the car if needed.

[67ragtp]

OMG- I'm sick, Matt I feel for you, real happy you came out of it ok. I'm probably the only person in the world that doesn't own a cell phone(nick name Fred Flintstone). If this was the result of a phone call or text I would make her eat the damn thing. Don't want to jump to conclusions but this subject is a pet pieve of mine. My trek to work leaves some punk ass, head on in my lane at least once a month while commuting to work or home. Im thinking about welding a huge piece of I-Beam to the front of my Ram for protection.

I am so sorry this happened to you, you will have her back together even better than before! - Rich

[OLDFLM]

After I threw up I went out and in the parking lot and flipped over ever Saturn in sight!

So glad you are okay my friend... :thumbsup:

BOS "can rebuild her"... they "have the technology!"

[Cris@JCG]

Damm Matt.. I can't believe this happened to you.. Most important is that your ok..

[tones2SS]

DAMN!!!! Sorry Matt! That sucks royally. At least you didn't get hurt.
Hope to see it repaired and back on the road again really soon! TAKE CARE!

[Precision Metal]

Wow Matt, Sorry to see this. Thank goodnees your ok. At least you know your car is in good hands at with Dick and the boys at Best of Show.
Jeff,

[Vegas69]

Sorry man, glad you made it through un harmed. That's always been a big fear of mine. About a year ago I was cruising in the Camaro down a 4 lane road and a lady on a cell phone pulls out of an apartment complex and didn't even look right! Luckily I noticed and changed lanes and slammed on the brakes. I pulled up beside her and told her to get off her ****** cell phone. They really need to come up with a stiff penalty for texting while driving. I think it should be mandatory that it's hands free as well. It's a huge contributor to me selling my motorcycle last month. Everytime I rode that thing my ass puckered watching all the morons attempt to drive to their destination.

[James OLC]

Glad you're ok Matt and sorry to hear about (and now see) the accident. I'm sure that the guys at BOS will have you back on the road in no time (fingers crossed).

Look at the bright side - you can debut a new car at Del Mar again next year! (hopefully sooner)

[Stuart Adams]

Wow that sucks. Glad health is ok, look forward to seeing it back together. Positive thing is maybe put her back together even better.

[Josh69]

Glad to hear you are OK! Keep us posted on Hagerty's involvement. I have them as well with a stated value policy and appraisal, etc. I hope for the best, but fear for the worst driving behind these yahoo's on their cell phones.

[Blake Foster]

That is just BAD NEWS!!
after all that hard work and time, i hope your insurance company is paid up. and that they don't turn into D!@ks
glad ur ok

[ironworks]

Man those pics are rough. Glad to hear your Ok. Be glad that lady was not driving her Peterbuilt. It can always be worse.

[96z28ss]

Oh man, I really feel for you. You could paint it a different color and it would be like you got a new car.

[michael6372]

Thank God you are alright. Sorry to hear/see the damage to your car, it's one of my favorites. Keep your head up, it will be better than ever in no time!

Michael.

[DRJDVM's '69]

Wow...holy crap.

My "car vs wheel on the highway" incident pales in comaprison to that.

Glad you are okay........

So...gotta ask.....what were your first words to the lady when you got out of the car ? :)

Look at it this way....you can make it even better this time.

[chr2002ca]

That's just horrible Matt. Makes me absolutely sick. I have nothing else to say but that. I'm just glad you weren't hurt also. I'm sure BOS will have you back in action in no time though, and it's guaranteed it will be just as good as before, if not better. You're in good hands over there.

Seeing that makes me realize I need to review my insurance policy again. Sh_t does certainly happen to all of us at some point.

[coolwelder62]

I am glad you are OK.Her insurance agent will more than likely offer you the phone number of a good paintless dent guy to try first.

[Dayton]

I heard you called Dick at BOS and said you'd been "Rupped"..


Now that is funny!
If I remember correctly Steve, you took it in the ass?:lol:

[Gandalf]

If I remember correctly Steve, you took it in the ass?:lol:

Best post ever award....
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[Gandalf]

Holy out-of-control-Saturns Mat!!! That just blows big, fat hairy chunks man! Really sorry to see this happen to your car but glad you are ok. See you at the shop soon and roll-on v2.0

G.

[Steve1968LS2]

Now that is funny!
If I remember correctly Steve, you took it in the ass?:lol:

Jealous?? ;)

http://i35.tinypic.com/2h69cwi.jpg

It buffed right out..

And at least after my accident I could still do this:

jFFYG3nXUnM

But it still sucked bad.. especially since it happened in may and killed my whole summer. :(

[Rybar]

WOW Matt, really, really sorry that this happened to you. But it could have been worse and you are lucky you aren't hurt.

This is one of my worst fears when driving my car on the road. I don't think I would have been able to control myself after an accident like that happened with the lady that hit you.

Luckily you are insured and you have a good shop that can rebuild the car.

[Revved]

Sorry to hear about the car but glad you are OK!

I've dealt with Haggarty from the shop side and they were just fine. They used an independant adjuster so as long as your shop knows how to play the game and give them all the documentation they need you will be fine.

[66LS7]

Matt I'm glad you're ok that is the most important thing. I agree 100% with Steve on the fact I feel safer on a track or auto-x than out on the streets & highways, that is when I'm not sliding off of turn 1 into the field!:rofl: :lateral:

[buickfunnycar.com]

...what's with 1st gen Camaro's leaving BOS then immediately getting wrecked.:_paranoid

So sorry to see this,hope your insurance agent is understanding...

[jack67rs]

Matt, what a bummer! Just after gettin everything dialed and finished, I feel for ya even though insurance will cover it. glad to here your alright.

Jack

[Steve1968LS2]

...what's with 1st gen Camaro's leaving BOS then immediately getting wrecked.:_paranoid

So sorry to see this,hope your insurance agent is understanding...

Actually I was on my way TO best of show..

But I do see a comonality... :_paranoid

[buickfunnycar.com]

Actually I was on my way TO best of show..

But I do see a comonality... :_paranoid

LOL...perhaps a scheme cooked up by the boys at BOS to retain customers?:unibrow:

[Joel145]

Best post ever award....
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

I second that.:rofl:


On a serious note, glad you're OK.

[awr68]

Actually I was on my way TO best of show..

But I do see a comonality... :_paranoid

What about your blue '69....didn't you loose a wheel pulling out of BOS? :_paranoid

[skatinjay27]

What about your blue '69....didn't you loose a wheel pulling out of BOS? :_paranoid
man that car might have well just been a rental car since he kept it so long! :D

[Steve1968LS2]

What about your blue '69....didn't you loose a wheel pulling out of BOS? :_paranoid

No.. must be thinkin of someone else.. I didn't have that car long enough to loose anything. lol

[Craig67]

Glad you are ok.....

[bigtyme1]

Sorry to here it matt don't worry to much it will be back in no time at all.

[GregWeld]

Hey Matt --

#1 - Glad you're okay

#2 - It's just a car - it'll get fixed

#3 - Hunt that idiot down and do something really awful (kidding)!

[Matt@BOS]

What about your blue '69....didn't you loose a wheel pulling out of BOS? :_paranoid

Maybe your thinking of "the other shop" down the street. Steve and I both lost some stuff when we pulled out from there :rofl: Now, by stuff I mean money, although... Let's just say I wouldn't be surprised if the incident on the 15 freeway wasn't the the first time Steve took it up the ass.

Matt

[RickM415]

how does that hagerty insurance work? do they total the car and give your the agreed value ? or do they give you the money to repair it and make it a salvaged vehicle ?

[skatinjay27]

the incident on the 15 freeway wasn't the the first time Steve took it up the ass.

Matt:lol:

[GregWeld]

how does that hagerty insurance work? do they total the car and give your the agreed value ? or do they give you the money to repair it and make it a salvaged vehicle ?

It will be HER insurance that pays the bill --- not his.... if it's her fault.

His insurance might have to take over - and then subrogate the damages with the other carrier -- but that's a whole 'nother story...and he most likely isn't there yet.

[DFRESH]

Glad you haven't lost that sense of humor you have. The pics are def a reality check on many levels---coverage, saftey and integrity of the car, looking both ways long and hard before venturing out into the intersection, etc. Very, very happy to hear you are ok. Thanks for taking the time to chat today--was great to know you came away completely uninjured---physically anyways. Car will be fine with some more time---just keep us posted when it's "Born Again"----. Got room for you in my car anytime you wanna go hang at Adams Motorsports Park---I was going to say I would let you drive, but I want to "up" my insurance first now---

Doug

[RickM415]

i was just curious because that car apears to have way more damage once its taken appart and i would think that a car like that has to be painted in a custom way ...and not conventional like a regular insurance job ...and that means lots of labor, whoever picks up that tab ouch! lol

[Matt@BOS]

how does that hagerty insurance work? do they total the car and give your the agreed value ? or do they give you the money to repair it and make it a salvaged vehicle ?

Someone over on pro-touring asked a somewhat related question about how Hagerty operates, so I'll do my best to explain for all the inquiring minds out there.

First, I do not believe that the car will have a salvage title. Typically cars acquire salvage titles when insurance companies write them off as a "total loss." generally, a total loss is calculated after crunching certain numbers at certain rates, and arriving at the conclusion that the cost of repair would exceed 70% of the car's estimated value prior to the accident. For example, the value of the Saturn that hit me was probably a couple thousand dollars, and repairing that Saturn after the lady hit me would run more than three grand, so her insurance company will most likely deem it a total loss, and would then have the opportunity to sell the car at auction, where it would then be branded with a salvage title.

In our case, the the 50-60 grand worth of damage doesn't equate to 70% of the car's value. Tomorrow we're meeting with the adjuster (who Dick has dealt with numerous times). Here is what is probably going to happen: the adjuster will show up, look over the car, and look over the itemized estimate that Dick spent all day writing up, hopefully then he will then approve Hagerty to cut either myself, or the shop a check for the estimated repair cost. He might also tell us to tear the car down after initially looking at it just to make sure there isn't anymore hidden damage. If it's all good, the car should still retain its clear title, and we will have a large check and can go wild ordering parts and getting the ball rolling on the rebuild.

Now for the details on how the insurance companies will handle payments, etc. Greg is right. Technically I don't have to pay a dime, and neither does Hagerty, however, her insurance company is likely to laugh at our estimate, and from my dealings with Hagerty they pretty much expect that behavior. I called them, and gave them them the police report case number and away they went handling things. The lady that hit me had liability only, and her policy probably didn't cover such a large amount of damage so Hagerty will cut us the check then subrogate the damages and get their money back from her company.

Oh and in response to the last question, gEtyOpAPiOn, since I've got an agreed value policy with Hagerty,I have much more room to dictate how the car is repaired. It isn't like the run of the mill stated policy where all of the estimates will be calculated by looking through a book that has the approximate hours to install everything and paint it, etc. according to the industry norms, which would then leave me to find a regular a regular collision shop.

Does that help explain everything a little?

Matt

[RickM415]

great explanation ...well i was thinking more than 60k on that damage being that its a custom car and to repaint it would most likely take million hrs masking it or taking it all apart again . but if it can be done for 50-60k i guess thats good news ..hopefully everything works out ...any chance of this being done before the sema show ?

[RickM415]

oh one more thing ...did that dse frame get damage ? and if the engine block has like scratches or grind marks ...would it be replaced too ?that wheel has to be warped i guess how about the rotor ?

[awr68]

Maybe your thinking of "the other shop" down the street. Steve and I both lost some stuff when we pulled out from their :rofl:
Matt

My bad! It was Steve's car that had an issue with the rear axle though right? The wheel came off as he pulled out onto the main road....or was that Mike B's car? It was a blue car in Cali....any points for that? So many years worth of stories to remember.....:lol:

[Matt@BOS]

Ok, I know I told you guys I'd give you some more background on how this whole accident went down, and even a little about the woman that hit me, so here goes.

First, I don't mean to scare all of you guys, but I looked both ways and hesitated before I moved into the intersection. I mean, I really looked left because that is where a red light runner is generally going to come from, and then glanced right. I even moved into the intersection cautiously because I know people don't stop at yellow lights anymore. Bottom line though, the woman in the Saturn wasn't paying attention at all. I was sitting at the same light today and timed how long it took cars to cross the intersection. It takes 8-10 seconds for the average car to start from a stop, cross over the train tracks, then enter and pass through the intersection. If the lady was going the speed limit, When I started moving she would have been so far back from the intersection that I never could have seen her.

Now about this lady, I don't think she was talking on her phone, but I wouldn't put it passed her. It is illegal is California. She changed her story from, "I know it was green," to - and this is exactly what she said, word for word, "it was green and I glanced to talk to my passenger and must not have seen it turn red, and you must have sped into the intersection quickly." Yeah, somehow she managed to insinuate that part of it was still my fault. WTF, really? The more I think back to it, the more I think she was a bit of a pissy bitch, which makes me even more proud of myself for keeping my cool. She was rude to one of the witnesses who was visiting from Mississippi that asked about local smoking laws because she had no idea where she could smoke. Saturn Lady also had an inability to follow the officer's orders and stay out of the street. The officer on scene also got a kick out of showing me her license info, which listed at least five aliases for her, meaning she had been married five times. She told me she had never had an accident before. I call B.S. on that one, I mean what do you call four failed marriages :lol:

Matt

[BritishGreen68]

Wow that sucks bad! Always a good time to make it even better though.. Usually when I have to fix something I upgrade so at least I feel like it was for a reason.. not that it needed much upgrading lol..

[awr68]

Start ordering parts already...SEMA is just around the corner! :_paranoid

[Steve1968LS2]

Maybe your thinking of "the other shop" down the street. Steve and I both lost some stuff when we pulled out from there :rofl: Now, by stuff I mean money, although... Let's just say I wouldn't be surprised if the incident on the 15 freeway wasn't the the first time Steve took it up the ass.

Matt

You should see a shrink about this "up the ass" fetish.. I think you might be surpressing something untold... :D

[Matt@BOS]

oh one more thing ...did that dse frame get damage ? and if the engine block has like scratches or grind marks ...would it be replaced too ?that wheel has to be warped i guess how about the rotor ?

Yeah, the paint and body work won't be cheap. They will have to put the new quarter on and do the body work on that, not sure how long that takes, then do the gill vents, which will take about 20 hours, hopefully a little less. I don't think they can cut the old ones out but it might be possible. After that it will take a fair amount of work to get the front fender to fit everything around it, lots of cutting, etc. to get it to all line up properly. Still the door only has a tiny scratch on it, and the gapping is still spot on so that saves time. Painting the rest of the car will be pretty easy actually. Most of the hours in the paint job are in the prep part and half of it is still straight and can basically be scuffed and shot, so it's not so bad.

As for the parts, well I'll let this one picture do some explaining. We need a new frame, end of story. the wheel, actually both passenger side wheels, we would like to replace just to be safe, especially because I plan on racing the car and don't want to risk any stress related failure. I'm pretty damn sure the front wheel is bent, and flat out amazed it didn't break considering it took the brunt of the impact. The rotor, and caliper we included in the estimate too.

About the engine... I hope it is fine, but you never know, so we are going to pull it and take it to TurnKey to have them inspect it.

http://i366.photobucket.com/albums/oo103/69MSA/shop005-1.jpg
Matt

[Matt@BOS]

You should see a shrink about this "up the ass" fetish.. I think you might be surpressing something untold... :D

Yes, this was a traumatic event and no doubt sent ripples throughout the various levels of my Freudian subconscious. Do you think Saturn Lady's insurance will cover a shrink? I don't know if mine will...

[Vegas69]

I sure the bannana in your tailpipe is causing the engine issue. :rofl: Meaning the closed off header tube.

[phillym5]

Man... I stopped by the shop today and had a peak at the Camaro. So sad...

[buickfunnycar.com]

Ok, I know I told you guys I'd give you some more background on how this whole accident went down, and even a little about the woman that hit me, so here goes.

First, I don't mean to scare all of you guys, but I looked both ways and hesitated before I moved into the intersection. I mean, I really looked left because that is where a red light runner is generally going to come from, and then glanced right. I even moved into the intersection cautiously because I know people don't stop at yellow lights anymore. Bottom line though, the woman in the Saturn wasn't paying attention at all. I was sitting at the same light today and timed how long it took cars to cross the intersection. It takes 8-10 seconds for the average car to start from a stop, cross over the train tracks, then enter and pass through the intersection. If the lady was going the speed limit, When I started moving she would have been so far back from the intersection that I never could have seen her.

Now about this lady, I don't think she was talking on her phone, but I wouldn't put it passed her. It is illegal is California. She changed her story from, "I know it was green," to - and this is exactly what she said, word for word, "it was green and I glanced to talk to my passenger and must not have seen it turn red, and you must have sped into the intersection quickly." Yeah, somehow she managed to insinuate that part of it was still my fault. WTF, really? The more I think back to it, the more I think she was a bit of a pissy bitch, which makes me even more proud of myself for keeping my cool. She was rude to one of the witnesses who was visiting from Mississippi that asked about local smoking laws because she had no idea where she could smoke. Saturn Lady also had an inability to follow the officer's orders and stay out of the street. The officer on scene also got a kick out of showing me her license info, which listed at least five aliases for her, meaning she had been married five times. She told me she had never had an accident before. I call B.S. on that one, I mean what do you call four failed marriages :lol:

Matt

I would so kill this bitch...totally at fault and still trying to deflect the blame.
People like this make me very ill,she should be taken out of the gene pool immediately without hesitation.

Major props to you for keeping your cool,you're a better man than me.

[Diognes56]

Sorry to hear :faint: :( :mad: . Glad you are ok though.

[98ssnova]

So glad you are ok and the metal will be fix just look at Rupp's car good as new

[Matt@BOS]

Start ordering parts already...SEMA is just around the corner! :_paranoid

You mean SEMA 2011, right? :lol: There is a sticker on the shop fridge that says "SEMA 2009 or bust" and we're gonna keep having to cross out the date and change. I was really looking forward to going and hoping to get into Optima somehow, that would have been a ton of fun.

The adjuster called and said he'd be out sometime Friday morning, so tomorrow we will start to get an idea of whether or not it is all going to proceed smoothly. If any of you local guys have time over lunch you're welcome to stop by, survey the damage and eat some fine tacos and burgers from the Best of Show grill.

Matt

[out2kayak]

Oh man, that really sucks.

There is a reason driving is a privilege and not a right. Perhaps she should be given some time away from her license to reflect on what she feels is important -- a chat or operating a dangerous 3400+lb machine that can kill if not operated correctly.

Glad you are ok. Time for those upgrades you have been wanting. :)

:cheers:

[NOT A TA]

Like everyone else said, it's good to hear you weren't hurt. Painfull to look at those pics though. Good luck with the insurance.

[Steve1968LS2]

You mean SEMA 2011, right? :lol: There is a sticker on the shop fridge that says "SEMA 2009 or bust" and we're gonna keep having to cross out the date and change. I was really looking forward to going and hoping to get into Optima somehow, that would have been a ton of fun.

The adjuster called and said he'd be out sometime Friday morning, so tomorrow we will start to get an idea of whether or not it is all going to proceed smoothly. If any of you local guys have time over lunch you're welcome to stop by, survey the damage and eat some fine tacos and burgers from the Best of Show grill.

Matt

Dammit.. I'm missing bbq day again!!!!!!! :mad:

I will be there Saturday though..

[89 RS]

Matt, That really sucks man. I would have been fuming. A couple months ago I was in my truck with my 2.5 yr old son and some guy behind me let off the brake at a red light and rear-ended us, I got out of my truck and asked him "what the hell you doing?", his reply was I guess I slipped off the brake. I told him to pay the hell attention, luckily just a scuff mark on my bumper. Bottom line, people are idiots and I think over half get their driver's licenses at Walmart.
Seeing those pics of your camaro made me sick and ticked off. As for Saturn lady, she's an idiot and failed to obey a traffic signal...not much to argue from her perspective. Glad you're okay man. Keep us posted on the repairs.

[Matt@BOS]

Matt, That really sucks man. I would have been fuming. A couple months ago I was in my truck with my 2.5 yr old son and some guy behind me let off the brake at a red light and rear-ended us, I got out of my truck and asked him "what the hell you doing?", his reply was I guess I slipped off the brake. I told him to pay the hell attention, luckily just a scuff mark on my bumper. Bottom line, people are idiots and I think over half get their driver's licenses at Walmart.
Seeing those pics of your camaro made me sick and ticked off. As for Saturn lady, she's an idiot and failed to obey a traffic signal...not much to argue from her perspective. Glad you're okay man. Keep us posted on the repairs.

Yeah, you know, I think I would have been more pissed off if there had been someone else in the car, especially if it had been a family member. I think I might have a certain lifetime tolerance for idiot drivers, and once that level is surpassed, I'll just go ape****. I got hit several weeks after buying my first car by a kid from my high school who told me that was trying to figure out who was in the car to his right and just forgot to look ahead. Idiot. As for Saturn lady, I almost feel bad for her, almost. I know she is going to **** a brick when she finds out she did 50k+ in damage, and only had a cheap liability only policy. I'm sure her provider won't like her.

Ok, know onto today's lesson in accidents and insurance procedures

When Hagerty handles a claim they have a number of adjusters. They have one who does the field work who actually visits and takes pictures, then they have a middle man that looks at the pictures and reads through the field worker's notes on the car. Finally there is Hagerty's big adjuster that has the final say on calculating a dollar amount to place on the check. Before I get too far I need to point out that Dick might well be the greatest asset ever. When it comes to handling this process he has been in the industry long enough to know the ins and outs of the claims process, how it works, and how to keep adjusters from haggling on the price of the estimate.


Today the "field worker" adjuster came out and looked the car over, taking pictures and going down the estimate list that Dick prepared. He thought the price of hood hinges was exorbitant and that 50hrs to color sand and buff was a bit too high. All in all, it seemed like a simple process. After he got his pictures and left I started to tear the car back down (it's about all I can do lol).

Couple of observations:
1. Carbon fiber makes you itch as much as fiberglass.
2. DSE's subframe must be a gazillion times stronger than stock. It might have taken damage but there are no crumples, creases, or cracks that are visible from what can be seen so far.
3. On forged 3 piece wheels, apparently the hoops are much weaker than the spokes. take a look for yourselves.

http://i366.photobucket.com/albums/oo103/69MSA/DSC_0681.jpg
http://i366.photobucket.com/albums/oo103/69MSA/DSC_0688.jpg
http://i366.photobucket.com/albums/oo103/69MSA/DSC_0690.jpg
http://i366.photobucket.com/albums/oo103/69MSA/DSC_0689.jpg

Matt

[tones2SS]

Man, that sucks Matt! At least you're not hurt.
Git'er done and back on the road again!:cheers:

[Ralphlovs72chev]

So sad! You have a beautifull car man. When things like this happen you have to see the good side of it. Now if you wish you could have changed anything before now is the time to make it better. Look at it like a second chanse if you will. I know it will come back twice as nice!!!:thumbsup:

[jski67]

Wow, that's just horrible...Matt, I commend you for your calm attitude, I'm sure it's very difficult.

I'm just finishing an 8 year restoration myself and am about to hit the road..what you are dealing with is of course my worst nightmare.

I also have Hagarty insurance so I appreciate any information you can provide about their process in a situation like this.

Best of luck in getting her back on the road!!!!

Jason

[Jano4]

I think I did cry a little bit. I pray I never have to go through something like this as I would be quite enraged about the estimate process and getting fair value. Not to mention dealing with the idiot that caused the accident.

Thanks for the 'lessons' on how your insurance claim has been going.

[Matt@BOS]

Ok, so it's been a couple of weeks and I've got a little update on the situation. First, the not so great (but not horrible) news - I haven't been paid yet. Tri-County appraisal, the independent adjuster acting as the middle man, lowballed our estimate by roughly 15-20 grand. They were also really unprofessional never giving me any of their contact info, but that's ok because they're out of the picture, which is good news. After reviewing the price discrepancy Hagerty decided to get us another independent adjuster who will be out next week sometime, I hope.

Now, because we are a finalist for Goodguys Muscle Machine of the Year presented in Scottsdale in November, whose winner isn't announced until sometime in October, we're a little anxious to get started on the rebuild. As such, I decided to get moving on a custom hood I've been dreaming up for the past 6 months and order a new subframe. Looks like we'll be making another car show crunch this year...

Matt

[waynieZ]

Good luck Matt, I hope it all comes together for you.

[Ummgawa]

Thumbs way up for a good attitude. I'd be sending this message from the jail house library awaiting my trial for justifyable homicide. I'd just hope I'd get car dudes on the jury...instant aquittal. Hang in there man, God didn't do it, the dumb a$$ed lady in the Saturn did.:thumbsup:

[awr68]

Keep the build moving forward and you and the guys will be fine!! :thumbsup:

[BBC69Camaro]

Glad you are okay, I'm sure Hagerty will take care of you and you will have an even better car (and your was pretty spectacular already)

[tones2SS]

Best of luck Matt. Now you can do the other hood and sub frame that you want. Good luck!:thumbsup:

[Matt@BOS]

Update: After over a month Hagerty is finally sending a check my way. It took a bit of effort, some frustration and four different independent adjusters but everything is finally on track. We've currently got a ton of parts on order, and Dick has started the process of fixing the rear quarter damage. I'll post up pictures in a little bit.

Matt

[Al Moreno]

I was at Best of Show last Friday and saw it. Chris gave my son and me the nickle tour.

Glad to hear its on the road to recovery.

I know there's always thing that you would have done different. So the positive on this whole deal is that you have a second chance to refine an already great car.

[kennyd]

Ok, so it's been a couple of weeks and I've got a little update on the situation. First, the not so great (but not horrible) news - I haven't been paid yet. Tri-County appraisal, the independent adjuster acting as the middle man, lowballed our estimate by roughly 15-20 grand. They were also really unprofessional never giving me any of their contact info, but that's ok because they're out of the picture, which is good news. After reviewing the price discrepancy Hagerty decided to get us another independent adjuster who will be out next week sometime, I hope.

Now, because we are a finalist for Goodguys Muscle Machine of the Year presented in Scottsdale in November, whose winner isn't announced until sometime in October, we're a little anxious to get started on the rebuild. As such, I decided to get moving on a custom hood I've been dreaming up for the past 6 months and order a new subframe. Looks like we'll be making another car show crunch this year...

Matt

i am in the same boat , we have a car in running for custom rod of the year , but the car is back appart fixing a paint issue . we should be ready for november also .

good luck with your car .

[bigtyme1]

Update: After over a month Hagerty is finally sending a check my way. It took a bit of effort, some frustration and four different independent adjusters but everything is finally on track. We've currently got a ton of parts on order, and Dick has started the process of fixing the rear quarter damage. I'll post up pictures in a little bit.

Matt

so are you staying with Hagerty? were you happy with them

[XcYZ]

Update: After over a month Hagerty is finally sending a check my way. It took a bit of effort, some frustration and four different independent adjusters but everything is finally on track. We've currently got a ton of parts on order, and Dick has started the process of fixing the rear quarter damage. I'll post up pictures in a little bit.

Matt

Great to hear there's progress, Matt.

[Teetoe_Jones]

Matt just left Anvil Auto with something different for the 69.....

Tyler

[buickfunnycar.com]

Matt just left Anvil Auto with something different for the 69.....

Tyler

...:unibrow:

[tones2SS]

That's good to hear Matt!:thumbsup:

[DFRESH]

Congrats Matt. Are you able to make it out for the Auto X at the Camirillo Airport? Am hoping so--would like to catch up with you there on the car and everything else. Text me or or PM me when you have time bro.

Doug

[Matt@BOS]

Matt just left Anvil Auto with something different for the 69.....

Tyler

Yeah, it's always nice to stop by and see what cool stuff you guys have lying around. Those new parts I picked up today are nice, but what I really want is one of those Teetoe Jones action figures I spied. That would be EPIC on my dash, and great advertising for you guys. BTW Tyler, unless Doug can present proof that he has an action figure of himself sometime in the next 24 hours I think you might just surpass him as coolest person on lateral-g.

Oh and Doug you're still pretty cool in my book. I'll be at Camarillo this weekend, and hopefully the bbq Saturday too, so we can catch up then.

Matt

[Teetoe_Jones]

Sweet. I'm finally the cool kid.

http://i54.tinypic.com/2bxnaa.jpg

Tyler

[Musclerodz]

Sweet. I'm finally the cool kid.

http://i54.tinypic.com/2bxnaa.jpg

TylerI can finally rest piece, and can officially say I have seen everything now.....:faint: :thumbsup:

[speedshftr]

looks like your left hand and wrist have really been worked out/lol

[DFRESH]

Sweet. I'm finally the cool kid.

http://i54.tinypic.com/2bxnaa.jpg

Tyler


LOL---that's so much better than the license plate frame I have from you guys.

Doug

[ironworks]

Sweet. I'm finally the cool kid.

http://i54.tinypic.com/2bxnaa.jpg

Tyler

Is that crappy cell phone picture of you taken on your European Vacation? Or is my monitor resolution low?

[tones2SS]

looks like your left hand and wrist have really been worked out/lol

HA HA!! That's his "kung fu grip". lol:lol: :cheers:

[redfire69]

Matt just left Anvil Auto with something different for the 69.....

Tyler

We need spy pics....

[Matt@BOS]

We need spy pics....

Don't get too excited. I'm just changing up a few finishes here and there. Now, would you be excited if there was a possibility of getting the hood that Jeff Davis did in CF. Keep in mind the hood isn't finished yet, but I'm sure you get the idea of what's going on.

http://i366.photobucket.com/albums/oo103/69MSA/Unnamed.jpg

Matt

[GregWeld]

That's gonna hurt!
:rofl:

[Flash68]

Nice to hear you're getting some $$ from them!