Expert: Bennie719 - 4/21/2009

Question
I took my truck to a auto shop where it was getting worked on. Over the night someone broke into the shop and stole all the keys and took my truck from the parking lot. is the auto shop liable for damages. or if its not recovered to pay me kelly blue book value?

Answer
Hi Chris,
If you carry comprehensive coverage on your truck, the best way to handle this is to make a report to your own company.  They will provide you a rental (based on the policy terms) and settle the total loss claim if the vehicle is not recovered.

They will then determine if there is any liability against the repair shop and do all the necessary to recover the amount that they paid out plus your deductible.

If you don't carry comprehensive, you should file a claim against the shop's General Shop Owners Policy.

Based on the limited information provided and the fact that I am only hearing one side of the story, it is impossible for me to try to determine if there is any negligence against the shop.

I hope that you find this information to be of help.  Your feedback by rating my answer to this question will be appreciated.

Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area