Expert: Charlie Barone - 7/27/2009

Question
I was in my Lexus IS 250, last week at a large resort in the Orlando area. The only car in front of me came to a stop as he had been looking for a relative's place. I was at a complete stop about 10 or 15 feet behind him. He saw his relative and quickly put his car into reverse, without looking behind his car. He admitted to me that he didn't look first. The only thing I could do was hit my horn. I didn't have time to move. He admitted that he was at fault and reported it to his company. He gave me his drivers license and insurance card. I checked with his company and he had admitted to them that he was at fault. I also called them and they sent a man out to look at my car the next day. My car is driveable. Damage to bumper. The insurance man said they would send me a letter in a few days. I want to get my car repaired at Lexus of Palm Beach. And I will need a rental car. Can I get it repaired where I want? And, do they have to pay for a rental for me?

Thank You, John Cook

Answer
Dear John,

Absolutely you can have your car repaired wherever you like. While the liability carrier may try to get you to take it to one of their preferred shops or network facilities, they have to pay the cost to have it repaired at your choice of shops. And yes, you are due a rental car for as long as it takes.

Charlie