Expert: Ron Cercone - 4/6/2009

Question
My car (a Jaguar) was struck by another car on 1/27/09. The cr ar was badly damaged adn taken to a reginonal repair facility. This facility says it doesn't know when the car repair will be complete. It is a leased car, I am entitled to loss of use for the lease payments?

Answer
Hello Lawrence,

1. I don't believe most normal automobile insurance policies include "loss of use" for your own car or a leased car. They just cover a rental car if you have an endorsement. Check to see if you have any endorsement for leased cars. If not, ask your insurance agent if there is such an endorsement (and please let me know in a follow up if you get a chance).

2. More important, you have to read your lease agreement. Find the section pertaining to insurance claims or when the car is being repaired to see if they provide a loaner car or adjust the payments while the car is in the shop. I suspect that if they have a clause that requires the car be repaired at "their shop" that there is a clause discussing this issue.

You can see how automobile insurance policies from various insurers read at http://www.uclaim.com/ on the products page.