Expert: Charlie Barone - 9/16/2009

Question
i was invovled in a hit a run and my insurance company totaled my car due to cost.  I got an estimate from a licensed auto body shop who would repair my car for less than half of what their adjuster reported and they still refused to fix my car.  I want to know if I am entitled to any compensation for the hit a run from my insurance company.  Since they refuse to fix my care and say that I have to release it to them.

Answer
Absolutely, it is your car and only you can decide what will become of it. If you decide to retain the salvage and repair it, you will have to notify your insurance company of your decision in writing. They will deduct from the total loss settlement a nominal fee for the salvage value they would have received. Depending on where you live and that state's regulations with respect to total losses, you may have to apply for a new title and have the car inspected by the appropriate authority when it is repaired.