Some suggestions:
First, from the sound of it, the bike is probably totaled. The payout $$ will depend on how it was insured. If it is totaled, you can usually either let the insurance company take it and get a check, or you can buy it back (very cheaply) and use the balance of the payout to repair it. If you cannot do much of the repair work, it might be best to let it go and replace the bike. If the bike is totaled and you buy it back and fix it yourself, it will have a Salvage title, which drops the resale value a lot. But many guys do this and plan to just keep the bike forever. The labor at $90/hr of changing an entire bike over when the frame is bent and any painting usually makes a total certain.
My adjuster frequently underestimated the hours for the repairs on my bike. When I challenged them they agreed and raised the # of hours to replace a part, and since they allow around $90 an hour for labor, it adds up fast. Be sure to make your own list of needed parts. If you need to know replacement labor hours, post it on the forum here—we’ll be happy to tell you.
Be sure to specify any aftermarket items you’ve put on the bike. I documented those with a screen shot from a vendor or eBay. If your policy replaces ‘in kind’ this will add hundreds to the ‘total’ payout (over a totally stock bike).
I always get replacement ‘in kind’ specified in the insurance policy so they have to replace chrome with chrome.
You can get a list of parts cost from Big Dog in Wichita. The website is Bigdogisback.com.
Another great source for you will be Derek and Donna McCloud at HDM Enterprises in Lyons KS (also known as Shovelheadkicker or bigdogpartskingpin—Same guy). They just hired a new parts man named Eric (Th3 Infamous1 on this forum). He is a great guy and he will help you thru this process. I recommend you call Eric at (620-680-0395). He knows the insurance game like a pro. He is fast, organized, and has great advice. (Reveal: he is a friend of mine).
Be sure to include helmet replacement. All agree (helmet industry, insurance, and vendors) a helmet should be replaced after an accident—no argument, discussion or proof of damage—they will replace it. Also a damaged jacket, jeans, gloves, etc are usually covered as well.
I found that I knew a LOT more about getting the information together than the adjuster—I called D&D in Lyons and emailed a list of parts needed, and they sent a retail cost list back quickly—-you can do this yourself or have the adjuster do it.
They are usually in a hurry to get the case closed—but will agree to paying for things that are found later—again this is not applicable if the bike is totaled. They want these things closed right away, and you’ll find them agreeable to all the above.
Be thankful you were not injured—I was not either, except for some road rash and my dignity.
Good luck.
Rick
