Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 8/4/2010

Question
hi. I hit a large racoon, immediatley turned for home, watching the idiot light (did not come on)and temperature gauge. Temp gauge went up slightly as I got home. (approx 7min drive) Towed to mechanic, was told it needed a new rad, then told also head gasket. Told the racoon knocked rad hose off and blew head gasket. Waiting for insurance adjuster to view car. I am asking how to handle adjuster as I am afraid they are going to try to get out of the coverage because I drove the car home. Do I have a valid case?

Answer
Hi Randy,

Just tell the truth. You had no reason to suspect that there was anything seriously wrong. Temp gauge only went up slightly as you got home. Only drove 7 miles. If the adjuster trys to deny ask them to put in writing the specific reasons of the denial. They likely will not want to. Just keep pushing for them to pay. Eventually they will.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh