Expert: Bennie719 - 3/13/2008

Question
Complicated matter, my husband was arrested, jumped bail and stole my car and fled out of state (sep 14). The car was a gift to me from an employer, solely in my name, however, the insurance policy is not. I filed a claim for loss which was denied because 1- he was listed on my policy, giving him permission of use 2- he has possession of the car.
He was arrested on Nov. 16 and was not in possession of the car. He left a cell phone message stating he sold my car. Ran the title, still comes back in my name. I have been without a vehicle since Sep. My question is since he was arrested in Nov without my vehicle can I refile a claim for a "missing vehicle" I have talked with the state police, da's office, insurance companies, penndot, etc etc and not getting any answers as what to do. The insurance company has denied renewal of my policy and I no longer will have insurance as of the 15th. I can't get a company to issue me insurance because I don't know where the car is garaged.

Answer
Hi Sheila,
I'm sorry to hear of your complicated situation.  I don't recall ever having a long term situation similar to this.
Your present situation is mind boggeling and there is no clear answer.
I would think that the police would reopen their case and at least  continue to look for the car. (But it could be anywhere in the world by now.)
He could have sold the car, but unless he also had posession of the title, the new buyer can't transfer the car into his name.  That could mean that he is just driving it around or has sold it to be dismanteled for parts.
I see no way that the insurance company will ever reopen the case and treat it as a theft.
I'm sorry, but I just don't have any good answers that apply to your situation.
Sincerely,
Bennie