Auto Insurance Claims/Hail damage

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Expert: - 10/25/2010


Question
MY Shelby was damaged by a hailstorm in Phoenix a couple of weeks ago. The damage will probably be covered by my insurance company, but there's a twist to the story.
The car was "in the hands" of a local speed shop getting some enhancements. They claim no hail insurance or responsibility since it was "an act of God" Do I have a legal case against them to recover my deductible and diminished value?

Answer
Hi Ron,

Unfortunately, no. In order for the shop to be liable in any way you would have to prove that they were negligent. Since they have no control over the weather I don't know how you would do that. As you were told, it was an "act of god".

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

Auto Insurance Claims

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Richard Hixenbaugh

Expertise

Auto insurance claims procedure, auto coverage, liability issues, auto damage questions, how to deal with the insurance company, loss of use and diminished value.

Experience

I have been involved in the insurance industry for over 25 years. I have experience in underwriting, sales, claims adjusting, auto damage estimating, auto value appraising and diminished value appraising. I have testified as an expert witness over 35 times.

Organizations
Society of Certified Auto Appraisers

Education/Credentials
Completed all required courses for the Florida Property-Casualty agents license and the Florida claims adjusters license. I have attended various courses on auto damage estmating, vehicle appraising and am ASE certified in collision damage analysis.

Past/Present Clients
My company has done work for consumers nationwide.

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