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Auto Insurance Claims/Insurers responsibility

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Expert: - 9/10/2008


Question
I was involved in a wreck on my motorcycle where the other party made an illegal turn and I hit them in the driver's door. I only obtained a bruise on my leg. They have admitted liability to repair my bike. The repairs will take 3 weeks to one month, which will make me miss an annual motorcycle trip that I have had planned for 3 months, with a group of ten people. This is a State organization event that I have no control over rescheduling. I have hotel rooms, etc.

Is the Insurance company responsible to get me a "rental bike" while mine is being repaired? They offered a car, but that will not help, I have a car. They also said they could pay me for "loss of use" but again, that doesn't get me a motorcycle for the trip, let alone the other three weeks that I will be without.

What can I do?

THANK YOU for your response.  

Answer
Hi Barry,

The insurance co is legally responsible for the cost of a rental bike while yours cannot be used.  They are not responsible for finding one for you.  But they normally will try to help you find one at a fair cost.

I'm not sure I understand the problem - is it that you cannot find an available bike for rent?  I would think a rental car would cost more and loss of use should cover the cost of the rental bike.

Auto Insurance Claims

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Claims Guy

Expertise

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Experience

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.

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