Expert: Ron Cercone - 10/21/2010

Question
I have had to make a claim on my own policy as the faulty partys carrier has not responded to my claim. My carrier states there is no loss of use I can claim from having my vehicle in the repair shop for more than 2 weeks now being that i made a claim on my own policy. estimated repair date is 3-4 weeks, at this point they are not even sure what structural damage has been done. the body shop we took it to was our own carriers agents. they have given us a low ball bid on repairs, and then at that can not tell us if any more damages are there until they disassemble and try to repair. the van is worth about $6000.00 and the total at this point is $3500.00 w/out checking the frame out. how do i go about this? They can not give me any any real answers to my questions and when your own carrier is fighting with you for what you are due, i am not sure where to turn.

Answer
Regarding loss of use, you will have to get that from the other drivers insurer if they accept liability, or sue the other driver in small claims court. As to the time to repair, you will just have to be a squeeky wheel or get another shop. If the car is totaled our, and you get lowballed, get the eBook Total Loss Auto Advice at UClaim.com.