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Auto Insurance Claims/stolen car recovered in mexico...

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Expert: - 8/4/2011


Question
My girlfriends car was stolen and recovered a day later in mexico.. With no physical damage to the car they just took ALL our stuff... After reading all the horror stories of insurance companies denining claims..(Can they do that?) I am having a hard time wrapping my head around the process of how they process claims? We just want our little car back home!

Thanks...
Lio...

Answer
Personal items in a car are normally not covered when stolen by the auto policy.  The auto policy normally covers only items attached to the car.  If you have a renter's or homeowner's policy, that would cover stolen personal items.  This varies by state, so check with you agent to be sure.  The auto policy would cover any damage done by the thief.

Not sure what horror stories you are referring to.  Insurers investigate all claims and pay the vast majority without a problem.  If there are suspicious indicators, they will investigate carefully.

Auto Insurance Claims

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Claims Guy

Expertise

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Experience

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.

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