Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 2/19/2009

Question
i reside in Oklahoma moved in recently from NJ.
Usaa member hit my car, and totaled it. the following day they issued a rental for 7day period the insurance settled on the amount for loss and asked to return the rental but because the vehicle is registered in NJ it will take them appx. 10 days because they need a person to perform and pass an inspection; according to usaa it is a nj requirement.

Q. should'nt the insurance pay for a rental vehicle for the entire time until i recieve the check?

ps. i asked the representative for claims (usaa) and she stated that the rental was for courtesy only.
Is this the corrective action?  

Answer
Hi Rod,

In total loss situations the insurance company generally owes a rental car until you receive the check. In this situation where there is an unusual situation that will delay the issuance of a check you just have to try to negotiate some extra days of rental. If the claims adjuster is not willing to do so, then keep moving up the chain. Ask to speak to a supervisor or claims manager who may have more authority to assist you.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh