Scott:
Ex-insurance guy here and I have some suggestions for you.
First, you MUST have a licensed shop inspect the car and be willing to 'put it in writing' that the car has frame damage that was caused by a collision. This is your first step.
Then, contact your insurance company and ask them to reopen the case, based on the inforamtion you are providing (shop estimate of frame damage). If you have the paperwork with the original file # this is a bit easier but not a huge deal.
If the company adjuster missed the damage, all the better, believe it or not, as they are liable.
The insurance company will send an adjuster out to look at the damage and he WILL talk to the shop that provides the opinion/estimate, so be sure they are willing to stand behind what the say, or it's all a waste of time.
You CAN get paid for the damage but you need proof and don't be snotty with the insurance company, just firm. Don't let some telephone rep blow you off and say "We can't do that". Bull. They can reopen a case. Simply ask for a supervisor and explain the situation and go higer if you have to.
If worse comes to worse, contact the state Insurance Commissioner and complain, loudly.
Insurance companies respond to letters of inquiry from the State Insurance Commission, I know. I've done this and it works.
Good luck...and don't get discouraged, just prepare the documents you need and be firm.
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