Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 11/1/2010

Question
My vehicle was recently damaged in a hail storm. My insurance company declared it a total loss. The same day they gave me a print out of the financial details regarding whether I wanted to turn the car over to them or owner retain the vehicle. They told me the only people who might have a problem with me keeping the car would be the lien holder. I paid the difference of what I owed and what the insurance company would pay so that wouldn't be a problem. My insurance company just called me Saturday (which is almost two weeks after the claim was filed) to tell me they would not let me keep the car and I have two days to turn it in. Is there anything I can do to keep the vehicle? I am in Arizona. Thank you

Answer
Hi Chelsea,

You need to demand that the insurance company provide you in writing exactly why you can not retain the car after they said you could. If they refuse or if their written answer does not satisfy you, you should contact the Arizona DMV as well as your state insurance commissioners office to learn your states policy regarding owner retention of salvage after a vehicle is declared a total loss.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh