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Auto Insurance Claims/Insurance valuation dispute

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Expert: - 1/16/2009


Question
A car hit our house.  The driver's insurance company sent an independent appraiser as they are only an auto insurance company.  Appraiser's estimate was $2215.  I obtained estimates from three licensed contractors.  The estimates average $9750.  Insurance company says $2215 is it -- final offer.  What do I do next?  I live in California.

Thanks,

Gary

Answer
I would call the insurer and say that you'll be happy to use their estimate if they can produce a licensed contractor who will do the work for the amount of the estimate.  If not, ask them what they expect you to do.

If they won't budge, you have a couple options:

(1)  call the state insurance department and file a complaint.

(2)  call your homeowner's insurer and let them handle the  damages.  You will have to pay your deductible up front.  But then they will subrogate against the car insurer for the amount they pay out plus your deductible, and return your deductible to you.  This will take several months to get your deductible back.

(3)  Repair the damages yourself using your contractor, and then sue the driver of the car.  The car insurer will then defend the driver and probably just pay you at that point to avoid court.  But you might have to go to court.  Considering the amount, you probably could handle the suit yourself without a lawyer in small claims court.

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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