Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 1/7/2011

Question
QUESTION: I was parked in the Village of Babylon ,LI NY and was struck by a snow plow.The insurance carrier for the village is telling me that the village has immunity in snow conditions under a law for NY.  That i would have to go through my insurance carrier.Is this true?

ANSWER: Hi Edward,

I am not spicifically aware of obscure laws in NY. The best source for that information would be your insurance company. Either way it would be better to go through your insurance company. Since this was not your fault, they can not raise your rates. If they are able to get reimbursed by the village of Babylon, you will get back your deductible. This process will be much quicker & easier than dealing with the village of Babylon.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: i know that they wont raise my premium but they still count it as a claim and i was trying to avoid that.

Answer
Hi Edward,

It does not matter what they count it as, as long as they don't increase your premium. The only alternative is to continue to argue and fight with the village which will likely lead you back to filing with your insurance company anyway. It's best to save the time, get your car repaired and let your insurance company fight with the village. That's what you pay them for.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh