Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 9/14/2009

Question

Hello. I wrecked my truck July 28th 2009. I called the insurance company and filed a claim. The Insurance Company Hired a local Appraiser to assess the damages and had it towed to the local collision shop. First appraisal didn't include suspension or lift kit work as the collision shop didn't have the facilities so towed it to the local dealership for further inspection. I'm being told (from the insurance company# that they did not get the supplement appraisal until AFTER the truck had been repaired and that I owe $1,886.17 in addition to my deductible payable to the collision shop. The collision shop is holding my truck now and said the local appraiser has the authority to approve all repairs. The insurance company says the appraiser don't have the authority, that it has to be approved by the assigned adjuster. WHO is at fault? The appraiser, the adjuster or the collision shop for approving my truck to be repaired at the dealership for items #I later found out) were not covered on my policy? The collision shop said that is policy for them to deal strictly with the appraiser, not the insurance company as they are the ones who hire the appraiser to be their eyes and ears. Am I stuck having to pay this $1,886.17 for repairs I did NOT authorize? I was left completely in the dark about this the entire time, until this all happened. Help!

Answer
Hi Carol,

Since you mentioned your deductible, I assume you are dealing with your own insurance company.

There may be some items that are not covered by your policy such as the lift kit or any aftermarket items you added to the vehicle. However, it is the independent appraisers responsibility to approve the supplements on behalf of the insurance company. The appraiser should have either known or should have asked the claims adjuster if these items would be covered by your policy prior to approving the supplement.

At this time it sounds like you will need to contact your state insurance commissioners office to file a formal complaint against your insurance company. You may also end up having to file suit against the local appraiser for approving work that was not covered by your policy.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh