Expert: Bennie719 - 12/4/2008

Question
I was involved in an auto accident where my new 07 vehicle was rear-ended (other parties fault). Other parties insurance paid for repairs. When i picked up my vehicle i noticed a grinding sound and immediately brought the auto back to the shop. According to the mechanic the transmission was damaged and needed repairs. So i went back to the other parties insurance and submitted another claim. According the the adjuster - the other party insurance covered only $20,000.00 in damages. They originally paid 12,000.00 for the cosmetic repairs and now the transmission is going to cost approx. 11,000.00. So the adjuster wants to cut me a check for $8,000.00 only. Leaving me to claim against my insurance for the 3,000.00. In addition the adjuster wants to take pictures of the damaged transmission prior to releasing the $8,000.00 check to me. Does this sound right or am i getting scammed? Thank you for your time and any information provided is greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Edd,
Everything sounds legitimate.  The adverse insurance company needs to inspect and photo the transmission so they can attribute the damage to the accident.
You should discuss the entire situation with your own insurance company before settling.
I hope you find this information to be of help.

Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area