Expert: Bennie719 - 1/4/2008

Question
A lady changed lanes into my 79 Datsun 280ZX.  She claimed 100% fault to the police officer nearby.  The at fault lady's Ins. sent inspector to look at my Z and he figured $1,925.00 to repair with $509. pre-existing hail damage.  Claim was then turned over to total loss adj. who told me Z had been totaled before I owned it and stated actual cash value now only $1,250. I said that seemed very low (didn't know of previous situation)and sent him auto repair/maintenance receipts.  He went on vacation and new adjuster said I had refused offer and with such an older car the undercarriage would bring down value too.  Help, I'm a single lady who loves this dependable little classic car, there are not very many around to compare with, and I have to continue to drive it to work.  If her ins. gives me a low amount, will my liability unin/underinsured motorist pay the difference to have it repaired?  What should I do?

Answer
Hi Gail,
Sorry, but you are only entitled to payment from the adverse company, nothing from your own company.
The fact that the car was already totaled once reduces it's current value by about 50%.
It's possible that you can agree on a value for the car and have the adverse insurance company allow you to retain salvage.  You could do a few minor repairs and keep driving.
Hope this has been of help.
Sincerely,
Bennie