Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 3/8/2009

Question
My daughter took my car without permission and totaled it, she was given a careless operation ticket that night and the next morning I went to police station and put unauthorized use of a movable charge on her since she stole the car. My regular insurance company paid but the auto gap sent me a letter they denied it since the accident was due to careless operation which is an exclusion. They didn't mention the fact that the car was stolen when this accident occurred. What should I do now, I feel like I've been getting the run around with them for the past three months and I'm having to pay a car note each month for a car I don't have anymore.

Answer
Hi Michelle,

You have to fight it. You will need to send them a letter stating that you do not agree with their decision because the vehicle was stolen. You will also need to send them a copy of the police report showing that you reported the vehicle as stolen. If they still will not pay, contact your state insurance commissioners office to file a complaint.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh