Repair shop sued by auto insurer for not making proper repairs to customer’s car

GRETNA – An auto body shop that allegedly improperly assessed charges to the customer of an auto insurer is being sued.

Safeway Insurance Company of Louisiana filed suit against Rusich Detailing Inc. and Rusich Collision Center in the 24th Judicial District Court on Feb. 13.

Safeway Insurance Company of Louisiana asserts that a van belonging to its customer Jorge Roldan was brought to Rusich Collision Center on April 1, 2013 for repairs and nearly 11 days later it was declared a total loss. The plaintiff claims the vehicle was later picked by an auto auction house. Safeway Insurance Company of Louisiana alleges that while the vehicle was being held at Rusich Collision Center it improperly assessed fees to Roldan in the amount of $829.24, including $22 per day storage charges, repair estimates for $192, an administration holding fee of $85 and sales tax of $24.24.

The plaintiff claims the costs should not have been paid by Roldan because Rusich Collision Center did not provide the proper storage forms and the other expenses were paid for by the auto auction house.

The defendant is accused of improperly assessing fees.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for restitution.

Safeway Insurance Company of Louisiana is represented by Raven E. Fielding of the Lafayette-based The Dill Firm APLC.

The case has been assigned to Division F Judge Michael P. Mentz.

Case no. 735-530.