Auto Insurance Claims/road hazard

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Expert: - 6/21/2011


Question
A rock came off of a trailer of a commercial truck and hit my windshield.  I called the 1-800 number to contact the company and after many rotations was finally directed to the regional manager.  He claims (maybe rightly) that they are not responsible for the damage to my windshield because the rock is a road hazard.  

Is this correct?

Answer
Hi Sid,

If the vehicle was hauling rocks or gravel and one came off the back of the truck, they are responsible. However, if the rock  was on the road and was flung up by the trucks tires, then they are not responsible.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

Auto Insurance Claims

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Richard Hixenbaugh

Expertise

Auto insurance claims procedure, auto coverage, liability issues, auto damage questions, how to deal with the insurance company, loss of use and diminished value.

Experience

I have been involved in the insurance industry for over 25 years. I have experience in underwriting, sales, claims adjusting, auto damage estimating, auto value appraising and diminished value appraising. I have testified as an expert witness over 35 times.

Organizations
Society of Certified Auto Appraisers

Education/Credentials
Completed all required courses for the Florida Property-Casualty agents license and the Florida claims adjusters license. I have attended various courses on auto damage estmating, vehicle appraising and am ASE certified in collision damage analysis.

Past/Present Clients
My company has done work for consumers nationwide.

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