Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 2/11/2010

Question
Hi Richard,

I live in California. My car was hit by somebody whose insurance has claimed total loss on my car, but when I got the settlement it deducted $700 for the salvage retention. I told the adjuster that I did not want to keep the car and the adjuster told me because I am a claimer, not their insurer, they do not need to handle my car and ask me to call the salvage company. However, the salvage company told me my car was only worth $150.
Is there any way besides suing them I can negotiate with the insurance so they can take my car and give me the salvage retention $700 back?

Thanks,

Steve

Answer
Hi Steve,

You need to call the insurance company and tell them that unles they take your car and pay you the $700.00 that you will file a complaint with the state insurance commissioner. Also tell them that the salvage company stated the car is only worth $150.00 and that if they do not make this right you will call the TV stations to inform them that they are stealing mony from California consumers.

You just need to stand tough and keep demanding what you want. If need be ask to speak to people higher up in the company, such asa claims manager, regional manager or Vice President of Claims.

I hope this helsp
Richard Hixenbaugh