Expert: Ron Cercone - 10/3/2010

Question
While in hospital psych inpatient 2 days ago. I agreed to a favorable settlement, 60% after rec'g title and keys, 40% after title change. As they wrote it off (before it was found).stolen 50 days ago. The day later the police called & said they found it. I said the ins. co. bought it from me. They said,  they would have it towed and stored. This is in Mass.But I need the money to pay bills,afford insurance renewal, expenses, etc. I need the money but don't know what do to do. The ins. agent said they would have 60% of settlement when I drop the title & keys off, 40% after completion. What do you think I should do? I am concerned that this could be ins. fraud but need the money.I am on SSDI and the check may be ready Monday. I would expect I owe the tow & storage, but I have not notified the insurer because I am afraid they will cancel the whole deal? What do you think are the likely outcomes

Answer
Don't sign a release unless it is a written partial release. I think they should pay you the full 100% at the time you give them the title, just like if you sold the car to someone. Why would you owe the towing and storage. Arthur, get a guaranteed eBook on Total Loss Auto at UClaim.com to guide you through all this without getting outsmarted or defrauded.