Expert: Charlie Barone - 1/12/2010

Question
I left my car at my parking garage with the attendant as I usually do. Got a call later in the day that one of the attendant drove another car into mine and smashed the front. The damage is surprisingly extensive. The car has to be towed to a body shop. Here's the thing - the car is a brand new 2010 Corolla just four weeks old. They said they'll pay to fix the car but won't replace it. Why should I accept a badly damaged car that has been fixed-up? With an accident this severe there will likely be recurring problems. What do you think my options are? Thanks

Answer
Steve,

The at fault party has the right to pay the cost to repair or replace your car, whichever is less. However, as the car is brand new you also have the right to claim diminished value. Go to www.ICAN.com and search for a local DV appraisal expert near you and follow up with them. If no one is near you to assist, let me know and I can help you. My e mail address is charlie@autoclaimshelp.net

Charlie