Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 7/23/2010

Question
Hi Richard,

A few months ago, a vehicle turned left in front of me as I was exiting an intersection. The other driver admitted full fault at the scene and apologized. Now his insurance company has accepted only 75% liability without giving me any reason. They never even took a statement from me of what happened at the accident.

Is there a way I can make them accept 100% liability?

Regards,

Kevin

Answer
Hi Kevin,

This is a tactic used by many insurance companies simply as a way to save money. If your damage is $4000.00 and thay only accept 75% liability they will only pay $3000.00 saving them $1000.00. If they do that on 1000 claims per year, that comes to $1 million dollars in savings. It's all about the money.

You need to call them and tell them that you demand to give your statement and that you will not accept even 1% of liability placed on you.

They may still try to stand their ground. In that case you may need to hire attorney and file suit against the at fault driver. If you can convince a judge thet the other driver is 100% at fault then the insurance company will have to pay you 100%.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh