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About Charlie Barone
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
For questions involving auto damage claims, collision repair, forensics, industry practices, we can help. We specialize in claims for loss of resale value (Diminished Value).

Experience
I have 30 years experience in the collision repair and body reconstruction field, both hands-on and from behind the desk. I hold a Master Certification from ASE in the Body and Paint category, as well as their certification in Estimating. I have authored over 120 feature and training articles for the largest trade journal devoted to the collision repair industry, and have given expert testimony in court dozens of times. Licensed physical damage appraiser in Pennsylvania and reciprocal states.

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Questions Answered By Expert Charlie Barone
In Category Auto Insurance Claims

Subject	Date Asked

Should I withdraw my auto claim?	11/18/2009
Q: My husband parked my car at a parking lot and it was backed into a spot. When he got back to the ... A: The vehicle's on-board computer may have a record of the air bag deployment, in which case the speed ...
Diminished Value / Loss of use	11/17/2009
Q: my question is are these two situations the same when you are involved in a auto accident. I got a ... A: Mike, Depending on the language in your policy, you may be owed for rental car costs or loss of ...
Total Loss Repair Reimbursment	11/14/2009
Q: I was 3rd in a 4 car pile up in MA. My car will likely be totalled. Can I recover any of the money ... A: The term used to compensate a person for a total loss is actual cash value (ACV), which is defined ...
comprehensive coverage damage claim	11/14/2009
Q: A friend of mine had his car totaled a couple of weeks ago in a roll over. I was in the accident ... A: Phil, I would tell your friend to ask the insurance company how they were able to determine the ...
1st Party vs 3rd Party Claims	11/13/2009
Q: I got into a car accident a week ago. The police report provides clear evidence that the other ... A: Outside of the deductible, which you will have to pay under your coverage, the amount paid for the ...
Checks Checks Checks	11/12/2009
Q: but I got a call today that I also have a check coming for Diminished Value of vehicle made out to ... A: Mike, Be sure not to sign a release of ALL CLAIMS arising from the accident. If you are unsure, ...
Diminished Value check coming	11/11/2009
Q: that has front end damage valued at $8,000 the car has 34,000 miles on it and is in repair right now ... A: Mike, Diminished value losses are based on the value and nature of the car that was damaged, ...
Loss of Use & Fleet Utilization Log	11/9/2009
Q: I had asked a question earlier, and Mr Hixenbaugh answered to that, my follow up question is ...do I ... A: Loss of use is typically a claim made by the owner of a fleet vehicle that was damaged, which ...
Car going to Body Shop	11/9/2009
Q: do i need to have a mechanic look at it as well. A: Mike, Any body shop worth its salt will know how to handle this situation. Insurance claims are ...
Total Loss	11/8/2009
Q: A tree from my yard fell over onto our family car and the insurance company came to us with a value ... A: The insurance policy you have says that they will pay the actual cash value(ACV) of your car, which ...
Diminished value claim	11/7/2009
Q: I have a 09 bmw 528i which got rear ended a couple of months ago. It is still in the shop and I am ... A: Mark, Check your policy to see if they excluded diminished value (DV) from your first party ...
car damages	11/7/2009
Q: My mini-van was hit from behind. The police report indicated that the other driver's probable ... A: The liability carrier of the at-fault party has no legal duty to you, however their policyholder ...
What is the expected outcome	11/7/2009
Q: Yesterday evening while stopped in highway traffic I was rear ended by a 18 wheeler who in return ... A: Typically the insurance company or the driver of the car you hit will go after the truck owner for ...
park lot bumper damage by truck	11/6/2009
Q: ..here it goes,simply, i work 4 bell and parked my car appropriately and left the site, a bell cable ... A: James, Why not submit a claim through the bell cable liability carrier? Since you have the police ...
rear ended	11/6/2009
Q: i was at a intersection waiting for traffic to pass so i could make a left turn and was rear eneded ... A: While you are waiting for the girl to step up and do the right thing, perhaps you can file a claim ...
CAR ACCIDENT W/OUT INSURANCE & SR-1	11/3/2009
Q: I live in California, My car was rear ended, and was not insured at the time of the accident, i was ... A: I'm unsure of the California statute that controls lapsed coverage, but I would make the claim ...
Claim being partially denied	11/2/2009
Q: I was hit on my left drivers side coming out of my work parking garage. The lady said I was in her ... A: A liability carrier can be difficult to deal with, as one has no legal duty to you whatsoever. Their ...
Rear ended	11/2/2009
Q: I was involved in a car wreck. I hit a guy that was stopped on the highway he was going turn left on ... A: If you can prove with statement from your witnesses that it was dark, there was poor visibility, and ...
Windshield Replacement	11/1/2009
Q: I am hoping you can give me some advice. I took my Lexus IS250 into a body shop for replacement of ... A: Your car obviously has pre-delivery damage which was not disclosed to you prior to your purchase. ...
mud on a pick up	10/31/2009
Q: we had an issue where our daughter along with two others had put mud on some kids pick up this ... A: The party with the damaged truck can take it anywhere he wishes for the repair. Their shop's ...
Car Rental reimbursment	10/29/2009
Q: In July 2009, I was rear-ended while at a traffic light (NY State). I went through my own insurance ... A: Send a letter to the liability carrier for the other party and tell them that you will take legal ...
Claim Check question	10/29/2009
Q: I have a question about a claims check. I was in a car accident a week ago. My insurance co. issued ... A: First of all, find a shop that you trust or one that is recommended by the dealer that sold you your ...
rear end damages	10/29/2009
Q: I was involved in a rear end accident on9/09. The insurance company was very quick to send a check ... A: I assume the insurance company you are dealing with is the liability carrier for the other party. If ...
Total Loss ACV v RC	10/27/2009
Q: My sons truck was recently vandalized. The ins co has determined it is a total loss due to the ... A: First of all. ACV (actual cash value) is determined by the cost to replace the vehicle with one of ...
ins. claim	10/26/2009
Q: my car was stolen from my driveway about a month ago. From the very first conversation I had with ... A: They can refuse anyone on any basis, but risk getting sued for bad faith in so doing. Make all of ...
Is this the end?	10/24/2009
Q: I was in accident on 10/22/09 it was on a busy street that has a gas station I was in the turning ... A: The other driver can sue you at any time. In fact, anyone can sue anybody for just about anything. ...
rental car	10/21/2009
Q: Last night a woman pulled out a hit my car. The passenger side door is dented and wont even open. ... A: If your car is not drivable in its present condition, which from your description it sounds like it ...
parking lot accident	10/21/2009
Q: My 16 year old son had exited his parking space at the local high school and was in the traffic ... A: You would have to take the other party to court in order to get 100% of the damage costs. However, ...
Diminished Value Question	10/19/2009
Q: I have a 2007 Nissan Altima that was rear-ended. The driver that hit me had no insurance. Repairs ... A: You need to get an appraisal from an independent appraiser, a local one to you can be found by going ...
Insurance Fraud?	10/15/2009
Q: I was in a car accident over two years ago in CA. The other drive was found at fault twice--by my ... A: While I am not a lawyer and cannot give legal advice, I know that making a profit on an insurance ...
Insurance claim issues	10/15/2009
Q: On the 16th of Aug. I struck my motorcycle with my Girlfriends car. The insurance company has sent ... A: You may want to file a complaint with your state department of insurance, referencing the claim ...
stolen dealer car	10/14/2009
Q: I am an insurance agent. My client, an auto dealer , had a new car stolen from his lot. The thief ... A: Exclusions from first party benefits have become very common in a number of states in the US. It is ...
Special Invesigations	10/14/2009
Q: My car was recently vandalized by someone taking a knife and keying the entire car, lights, and ... A: Just tell the investigator the truth. Betterment is something that insurance companies will deduct ...
Special Invesigations	10/14/2009
Q: My car was recently vandalized by someone taking a knife and keying the entire car, lights, and ... A: If you had coverage at the time of loss, you are owed compensation. If they are denying your claim, ...
recent car accident	10/14/2009
Q: I hit the rear bumper of a 2007 dodge magnum while pulling out of a small parking lot and broke the ... A: Repair costs are often much higher than what they would seem to be, based on appearance. The person ...
Repair center choice	10/13/2009
Q: My son was driving my car ( he is a named driver with full comprehensive insurance ) he is only 17 ... A: The owner of the car your son damaged has the right to get his car repaired at any shop he likes (or ...
Uninsured rear ended.	10/12/2009
Q: I was involved in a rear end collision, as I was waiting in a line of 3 cars and this guy hit me ... A: Mahmoud, Yes, your friends are correct in their assessment of your situation. That is, small claims ...
Auto Insurance Claim	10/11/2009
Q: My car was recently hit my an uninsured motorist. I'm almost 9 months pregnant and in two months my ... A: If I understand your question correctly, you are seeking to increase the coverage on ...
Totaled Car	10/9/2009
Q: I need info for my mother. She was involved in an auto accident several yrs ago. Her car was deemed ... A: Your mother's car is now branded as a former total loss, but that does not mean she cannot drive the ...
Motor mount damage due to rear end collision	10/9/2009
Q: In a rear collision, where to car that is initially with so much force that it hit the car in front ... A: Yes, be very careful with respect to structural (frame) damage. Ask the shop for a printout from ...
Private Property fender bender	10/7/2009
Q: I live on a farm and my drive way is about a half kilometer long and then goes out into a lot which ... A: It would appear that the car going in the driveway had the right of way, so you are at fault. ...
insurance co. not yet pay claim	10/7/2009
Q: my daughters car was stolen on 8-8-09 and was found by police on 8-10-09 with is the day claim was ... A: File a complaint with your state's insurance department and give them the details of the claim, your ...
File claim through my insurer, or other driver's?	10/4/2009
Q: Charlie. First of all, here's some background info. I live in Florida, and my car was badly hit ... A: Jonathan, Yes, it is up to you entirely which insurance company with which you file the claim. ...
I got hit by someone running red light in San Francisco. I got no insurance, nor registration. What do I do?	10/3/2009
Q: I got hit by a small SUV at a busy intersection in San Francisco, CA. It is obvious that he ran the ... A: If you have his phone number you can do a reverse number search online to find his address. As far ...
salvage value dispute	10/2/2009
Q: Due to a property damage cap the insurance company handling the claim has decided to give me the ... A: You need to turn this around and challenge the insurance company to show you a bid for $4000. ...
I got hit by someone running red light in San Francisco. I got no insurance, nor registration. What do I do?	10/2/2009
Q: I got hit by a small SUV at a busy intersection in San Francisco, CA. It is obvious that he ran the ... A: At least you know how to contact the party at fault. whether you get anything or not is iffy, but he ...
Claim dispute	10/1/2009
Q: I was in an accident, the other driver hit me, though she is claiming that I hit her. The police ... A: Amy, This is the first I have ever heard an insurance company (particularly your own company) make ...
Value of total loss disputed	9/30/2009
Q: My car was deemed a total loss by the other driver's insurance company (they accepted liability). ... A: Benjamin, An insurance company owes you the actual cash value of your car just prior to the loss. ...
Insurance responsibility for auto damage	9/29/2009
Q: My Son was rear ended at a red light. The person who rear ended him was cited 100% at fault. There ... A: Sally, First of all, you can take your son's car to any shop you wish, regardless of them being in ...
Diminished Resale and Trade In Value	9/25/2009
Q: In July of 2009 my husband was involved in an accident which was not his fault. The retail value of ... A: A third party liability carrier that insures the at-fault party has no legal duty to you. Their ...
Accident - no police report filed	9/24/2009
Q: `Recently, I was involved in a fender bender whereby the other vehicle hit me as I was preparing to ... A: Depending on the cost of repairs the other vehicle will require, the choice is yours. You might want ...
subrogation claim	9/24/2009
Q: Well to try to make it short my husband was riding his ATV on a dirt rd when he rounded the corner ... A: Cher, Since insurance companies are notorious for underpaying claims and paying less than the ...
sales tax on total loss	9/23/2009
Q: (Wisconsin) I have made a claim with my insurance company, which considered my vehicle a total loss ... A: Ordinarily in a total loss an insurance company owes you the actual cash value for your car (the ...
Comprehensive Claim check amount vs actual cost of repair	9/22/2009
Q: My insurance company's claims adjuster cut a check in my name, minus the deductible, for some ... A: A claim does not obligate the insured to repair the property that was insured. While it is illegal ...
Insurance claim	9/22/2009
Q: I have a claim in on my motorcycle that I hit with my girlfriend’s car. Both vehicles suffered ... A: An insurance company has to take your statements in good faith. In other words, they can't deny the ...
Insurance claim	9/22/2009
Q: I have a claim in on my motorcycle that I hit with my girlfriend’s car. Both vehicles suffered ... A: All insurance policies have an appraisal clause, in which the policyholder chooses an independent ...
Release of accident claims	9/18/2009
Q: My boyfriend was recently involved in a multi-car accident. It was raining that day so the roads ... A: Have your boyfriend submit the claim to his insurance company with the details of the accident. Be ...
Third Party Diminished Value - Pennsylvania	9/17/2009
Q: Recently I was hit by a drunk driver who ran a red light and broad sided my car as I was passing ... A: You need to get an appraisal from a licensed appraiser in PA in order to file a DV claim. If you ...
URGENT door dings	9/17/2009
Q: I live in an apartment complex. My Car is (well was) in excellent like new condition. My neighbor ... A: First you must find out who insures your neighbor. Getting their insurance company to pay to repair ...
Adjuster claim lowball	9/17/2009
Q: I was involved in an accident 3 weeks ago.I am just hearing from the guys insurance company.I had ... A: Jeremy, You can take your car to any place you want. It's your choice. Furthermore, the liability ...
Hit and Run	9/16/2009
Q: i was invovled in a hit a run and my insurance company totaled my car due to cost. I got an ... A: Absolutely, it is your car and only you can decide what will become of it. If you decide to retain ...
Wrongful denial of auto claim	9/6/2009
Q: My sons friend had an accident with his car. My son told his friend that night that he did not want ... A: The implied permission is not valid if your son had explicitly forbid his friend from driving his ...
Should I file a claim	9/2/2009
Q: One week ago I was in an accident. An animal ran in front of my car, I swerved, and over corrected- ... A: You might want to ask your insurance company what the impact of filing a claim like this is. You may ...
at fault driver hit my car, causing total loss/injuries	9/2/2009
Q: One month ago, a driver hit my new 4 month old car on the right side, causing my vehicle to flip and ... A: Yes, it is normal for property and injury claims to be handled by separate adjusters within the same ...
rear ended by a drunk driver	8/31/2009
Q: I was rear ended at a stop sign by a drunk driver. My car suffered a lot of damage. I contacted my ... A: Yes, the liability carrier of the person that hit your car will reimburse your insurance company ...
Diminished Value	8/31/2009
Q: I live in Florida. My car was properly parked when a woman hit my car and my car was thrown 60 feet ... A: Rita, I was afraid of that being the case, and this means that you are out of luck with respect to ...
Diminished Value	8/31/2009
Q: I live in Florida. My car was properly parked when a woman hit my car and my car was thrown 60 feet ... A: Yours is not an uncommon predicament. However, your own insurance policy provides for both uninsured ...
claim	8/30/2009
Q: so i was worried and upgraded to full coverage. later that night my hood flew up while driving on ... A: As long as you can document the time and date of your upgrade to full coverage, as well as the time ...
hydrolocked engine	8/30/2009
Q: I hydrolocked my engine during a bad rainstorm. I have full coverage due to the fact that the bank ... A: You should be covered under your comprehensive coverage. I'm not sure what you mean by being "able ...
Claims adjuster disagrees with estimate	8/28/2009
Q: While driving in the outside lane, I was hit by a car in the inside lane that didn't want to wait ... A: To answer your first question, no, he is not being fair. However, he is adverse to your interests ...
Auto insurance claim	8/28/2009
Q: My car was hit from behind and the body work was badly dented. The valuator informed me that the ... A: In the US an insurer has the right to pay the lesser of the cost to repair or replace a car with one ...
Traded in while waiting for other party & insurance co. (not at fault)	8/27/2009
Q: My parked car was hit at low-speed in a parking lot (in PA). At the scene I agreed to work with ... A: If your insurance company has located the at-fault party's insurer, then they will subrogate with ...
Auto insurance claim	8/27/2009
Q: My vehicle was involved in an accident, prior to the accident, my car had 4 matching rims, One of ... A: Tell the adjuster that you will be filing a diminished value claim on the basis of how their company ...
keys taken for vehicle	8/27/2009
Q: my vehicle keys were stolen from my garage on the 15.8.09,and the car was stolen using the keys ... A: As long as you can document that the keys were stolen, the policy should cover the loss. Even ...
DV - structure damage vs. 17c formula	8/26/2009
Q: My insurance argues the diminished value is related to the vehicle structure damage. The insurance ... A: According the rules governing the application of the 17c formula, this is how it is applied: ...
DV - structure damage vs. 17c formula	8/26/2009
Q: My insurance argues the diminished value is related to the vehicle structure damage. The insurance ... A: I am unsure of the regulations that control DV claims in Georgia. However, there must be an appeals ...
DV - structure damage vs. 17c formula	8/25/2009
Q: My insurance argues the diminished value is related to the vehicle structure damage. The insurance ... A: Structural damage, while serious, is not the only thing that triggers a loss of value. Repainting a ...
Rental Company: Claiming Damages	8/25/2009
Q: I was hoping to direct this question to webfoot, however he is on vacation so I am hoping another ... A: You never know what may have happened to a car prior to your rental, so it is anyone's guess whether ...
Boyfriends Car stolen	8/20/2009
Q: My boyfriend bought a 2000 jeep Cherokee back in April which he is currently financing. At the end ... A: Nicole, Have your boyfriend send a letter to State Farm referencing the claim # and demand that ...
Caused an at-fault accident, do I need an attorney?	8/20/2009
Q: I just caused an accident where I rear-ended another vehicle both while in motion on a highway in ... A: While this is a legal question and not within my expertise, I will tell you what I know. Your ...
Comprehensive Claim	8/19/2009
Q: I sustained hail damage to my vehicle and have GEICO insurance. I filed a comprehensive claim on ... A: Sure, ask your Geico adjuster if you can use the proceeds of the claim to pay off the car. In fact, ...
Comprehensive Claim	8/19/2009
Q: I sustained hail damage to my vehicle and have GEICO insurance. I filed a comprehensive claim on ... A: Your instincts with regard to the body shop and their cozy relationship with Geico are on the money. ...
Parking lot-both drivers backing up	8/18/2009
Q: I described an accident earlier but would like more info. My husband was backing out of an unmarked ... A: Generally speaking, blame is assigned to a person who hits another car behind the rear axle, which ...
auto claim	8/18/2009
Q: I was told in order to receive an insurance check for my car the check must be made out to the lien ... A: Most insurance companies will settle claims with anyone who is willing to do the work for their ...
damage estimate	8/17/2009
Q: I was in an accident on 7/21 in my 2006 Dodge Ram and still have not received a complete estimate ... A: It sounds like it will be at the very least a borderline total loss, particularly in light of the ...
Diminished Value Claim	8/16/2009
Q: "Hello: I was rear ended a couple of weeks ago and statefarm took 100% responsibility of the case. ... A: You will need a post repair inspection once the repairs are completed. In that appraisal the ...
State Farm Auto coverage in Florida	8/15/2009
Q: I have a 1988 911 Porsche 911. Auto journals place it's value around $20k. My concern is that even ... A: Sorry, Ron, but I apparently clicked the wrong box when I first tried to answer your question. You ...
what should i do ?	8/14/2009
Q: i have a eskoda rider which i bought last year , two weeks back i was driving it and there was some ... A: Anees, In cases like yours you need to be assertive of your rights as a policyholder. Otherwise ...
Diminished Value in Florida	8/11/2009
Q: I was rear ended while sitting at a stop light on May 19,2009. I filed a claim with the at fault ... A: Christina, Your experience is typical of persons filing claims with third party liability carriers. ...
naming repair shop on claim check	8/11/2009
Q: My car was damaged when I side swiped a concrete guard at a gas station. Myinsurance company ... A: You can have your car repaired at any shop you choose. However, the lien holder's name will be on ...
Repair estimate check	8/10/2009
Q: "Hello: I was rear ended a couple of weeks ago and statefarm took 100% responsibility of the case. ... A: First of all, it is illegal to profit from an insurance claim. They owe you exactly what you had ...
Diminished Value Claim denied!!	8/10/2009
Q: About a year ago, I was rear-ended in Southern California. My 2003 Infiniti FX35 sustained $14,000 ... A: Spencer, The liability carrier's response is typical of insurers. However, you are owed this loss ...
total loss decision	8/6/2009
Q: My son was involved in an accident where the party pulled out in front of him and admitted fault in ... A: The insurance company owes you the actual cash value for your car, which is the cost to replace it ...
Diminished claim	8/6/2009
Q: My car was hit by another and that car was declared at fault. The insurance company of the car at ... A: Yes, diminished value is payable to all third party claimants in all 50 states. What you have to ...
Insurance Claim	8/5/2009
Q: I was involved in an accident where a lady backed into me and into my passenger door. She would like ... A: You can have the car repaired at any body shop you like. If your friend can write you an estimate ...
car insurance	8/3/2009
Q: My car was hit, and totaled. I only had liability. the person that hit my car WAS at fault. They ... A: Your instincts are correct, but as a third party claimant they have no legal duty to you. Their ...
rear end collision extenuating circumstances	8/1/2009
Q: I rear ended a car that had panic stopped in the left lane of a three lane traffic light controlled ... A: Unfortunately, you are responsible for the control of your vehicle at all times. However, the cables ...
Claim	8/1/2009
Q: I had an accident about two months ago. It was the other persons fault, so I filed a claim against ... A: Absolutely. The money is yours to spend any way you see fit. However, most estimates written by ...
Property Damage	7/31/2009
Q: I am trying to settle my auto claim from last year. The at fault drivers insurance adjuster are ... A: As for the fault in the accident, I can't offer you any help in that respect. But get your witness ...
Insurance claim	7/31/2009
Q: My husband backed into a friends car parked in our yard. No damage to our car but damage to the ... A: Sherry, Your deductible does not come into play in a liability claim. They will pay the cost for ...
Car Fire	7/31/2009
Q: I lost my vehicle (2006 Toyota Rav4) in a car fire today. The fire started in either the passenger ... A: Yes, you have recourse as do all policyholders with auto insurance. Their is what is known as the ...
Rear-end collision claim	7/29/2009
Q: This is a follow-up to my first question. Which is posted below with the response: was rear-ended ... A: The liability carrier of the at fault party has no legal duty to you, so they can mislead you, treat ...
Proving fault	7/29/2009
Q: I was in a double left turn on the outside lane, the car in the inside left lane hit the back of my ... A: Based on your description of the events and damage and where his car hit yours, I would assume he ...
Auto Accident	7/27/2009
Q: I was in my Lexus IS 250, last week at a large resort in the Orlando area. The only car in front of ... A: Absolutely you can have your car repaired wherever you like. While the liability carrier may try to ...
how to get fair value of car that was totaled	7/27/2009
Q: Last week-end our 95 mustang gt convertible was hit, and we are now being told it is totaled. the ... A: As a liability carrier of an at-fault party, their insurance company has no legal duty to you. It is ...
damaged during repair	7/24/2009
Q: My vehicle was taken to the car dealer to have a key programmed out of use. When the vehicle was ... A: The dealer seems to be responsible for the seat problems as they did not exist prior to taking the ...
total loss 6 yr old stored vehicle 10k mi.	7/23/2009
Q: My vehicle was totaled by an uninsured motorist. It's six years old, but had been stored until this ... A: Yes, you have a few ways to go. I would write a letter to your insurance company and tell them that ...
Engine Replacement	7/21/2009
Q: I just had my engine replaced as a comprehensive claim because it hydro-locked during a bad ... A: Yes, you are entitled to have all replaced parts returned to you at your request. In fact, some ...
diminished value and possible total loss	7/16/2009
Q: Good morning Mr. Barone. Last week my girlfriend was hit causing 9,000 in damage to a used 08 Toyota ... A: Daniel, If you are filing a claim under your girlfriend's first party collision coverage, the terms ...
Auto accident.	7/16/2009
Q: I was rear ended while stopped at a red light. The guy who hit me is the "son" of the insured. I ... A: Until you have a legal judgement against the other party, GEICO has no legal obligation to you. ...
Auto accident.	7/15/2009
Q: I was rear ended while stopped at a red light. The guy who hit me is the "son" of the insured. I ... A: As the liability carrier of the at fault person, Geico has no legal duty to you. And if you have no ...
Bodily Injury Suit/Vehicle Title	7/15/2009
Q: Not at fault accident. Vehicle has been repaired and paid for. Bodily injury suit has been filed. ... A: I'm not sure why he would be requesting that document, but may be interested in the status of the ...
Rear End Accident Coverage	7/14/2009
Q: My husband was recently the victim of a rear end accident while stopped at a red light. He was hit ... A: Your insurance will cover the damage to the car your husband hit, but his insurance company will go ...
Engine problem showed 6 months after the accident	7/12/2009
Q: I had a small accident 6 month ago. My insurance took care of the repair at that time. SOme major ... A: You need to gather all the evidence you can in writing and submit it to your insurance company. The ...
My parked car was Backed into	7/10/2009
Q: My parked car was backed into , on private property. The woman admited fault of course and ... A: You have the option of reporting the claim to your own insurance company, which will eliminate the ...
Victim Claim Process Issues	7/8/2009
Q: My vehicle was hit in the side on private property. The responsible party admitted wrong doing and I ... A: Eugene, There are no laws in any state that require you to get more than one estimate. Most state ...
Victim Claim Process Issues	7/8/2009
Q: My vehicle was hit in the side on private property. The responsible party admitted wrong doing and I ... A: Eugene, You can take your car to any shop you like, so find the best shop you can and one with the ...
total loss of vehicle	7/6/2009
Q: I was involved in a collision that the other driver had farm bureau insurance and they have deemed ... A: The decision to repair or replace is the sole right of your insurance company. They have the right ...
auto claim	7/2/2009
Q: I wrecked my car it was my fault i hit a light pole in a parking lot now i didnt claim my car at the ... A: Jennifer, As long as you had coverage as of the date of loss, your delay in reporting the claim ...
Only structure damage is eligible for the DV claim?	7/1/2009
Q: you state, “We specialize in claims for loss of resale value (Diminished Value)." You should be the ... A: It all depends on what the composition of your bumper is. That is, if it is a bolted on item that is ...
salvage title	6/24/2009
Q: I was hit by a drunk driver and my ford explorer was called a total loss by the other driver's ... A: In most states the salvage certificate is not issued until the owner submits his title to the state ...
Q	6/24/2009
Q: I have a car that I want to sell. The title and insurance are under my ownership. A relative of mine ... A: You should keep the title in your name and not transfer it. Anyone can buy coverage on any property ...
Total loss on pop up camper	6/24/2009
Q: Did I have to accept the total loss check? Or could/can I request them to fix my camper based on the ... A: You have what is known as a third party claim under the at-fault person's liabiity coverage. You may ...
Total loss on pop up camper	6/23/2009
Q: Did I have to accept the total loss check? Or could/can I request them to fix my camper based on the ... A: Either your insurance company or the one that insures the party that caused the loss is ...
restitution lien	6/18/2009
Q: my name is on the title of my son's car. He recently was in an accident (not his fault). the ... A: In many cases a third party insurance company (the company of the at-fault party) will not have any ...
Betterment	6/18/2009
Q: I googled betterment laws in Texas and i found that their were court cases which prevented auto ... A: There was a case in PA that made it against the law to take betterment off an insurance settlement, ...
insurance payout	6/18/2009
Q: "hi, my name is jorge, i'm a Oregon resident and i am insured by american family. my vehicle was in ... A: Jorge, You can take your car to any shop you want---it's your decision entirely. The insurance ...
Am i able to minimize a claim against me?	6/17/2009
Q: I was recently in a car accident where i was at fault. I hit the car in front of me, after i ... A: It is hard to dispute the repair costs when someone presents a paid invoice for repair. Boot lid ...
vehicle accident and liability	6/14/2009
Q: I was pulling out onto a 4 lane highway making a left. I reached the middle turn lane/median. A car ... A: I'm assuming you're headed to court for the hearing in this matter. You'll have to build the best ...
previous damage affects current damage?	6/12/2009
Q: I've recently got into a car accident and am not at fault. the accident caused damage on the front ... A: Get an estimate for a new bumper from the body shop and submit that to the liability carrier. Let ...
Old Accident	6/12/2009
Q: I am leasing a car and I backed into a metal railing at work. There was no damage to the railing, ... A: No, it isn't too late to make the claim. In fact, you allowed your insurance company to hold the ...
previous damage affects current damage?	6/11/2009
Q: I've recently got into a car accident and am not at fault. the accident caused damage on the front ... A: Get an estimate from any body shop you like. Explain to them the circumstances and get their price ...
previous damage affects current damage?	6/11/2009
Q: I've recently got into a car accident and am not at fault. the accident caused damage on the front ... A: It is a standard practice to deduct what is known as "betterment" in cases in which a part has prior ...
Insurance denied Claim	6/11/2009
Q: I got invloved into an accident 2 hours after I upgraded from liablilty to full coverage, there was ... A: That's a tough one. You need to gather as much evidence from witnesses or any other source that ...
previous damage	6/10/2009
Q: My wife's car was hit on a rear left side. The person who hit my wife's car is at fault. As a ... A: This is a typical reaction by an insurance company. Since a new bumper cover may yield you a car ...
statute of limitations question for auto accident	6/10/2009
Q: TN. We live in Georgia and have been dealing with the insurance company here. We were struck from ... A: Taran, I am not familiar with the statute of limitations in all states, but the two year limit is ...
Totalled Car - Which insurance to claim?	6/9/2009
Q: My car got totalled while on business due to a freak accident. My personal comprehensive insurance ... A: It is illegal to make a profit on an insurance claim, but the company that offers you the best ...
Accident caused by driver who may or may not have had	6/8/2009
Q: My family and I were involved in an accident recently. The accident was not our fault, and I am ... A: The liability carrier has no legal duty to you until you have a court ordered judgement against one ...
Accident caused by driver who may or may not have had "permissive use" of vehicle	6/8/2009
Q: My family and I were involved in an accident recently. The accident was not our fault, and I am ... A: Paige, First of all, the liability carrier for the owner of the other car has no legal duty to you. ...
third party diminished value claim	6/4/2009
Q: I was at a stop when I was rear ended by a bmw which caused me to crashed into the pick up truck in ... A: Marlina, A third party claim against a liability carrier like Encompass can be difficult to settle. ...
Auto Insurance Claim	6/4/2009
Q: On Tuesday, April 28, 2009, the driver and passenger side curtain airbags deployed on our 2005 ... A: Lynda, It sounds like you need the help of a good lemon law attorney, one who will hire a local ...
totaled my friends car, my collision covered minus deductible, am i required to pay deductible?	6/2/2009
Q: I was driving my friend's car with permission for personal use in LA. I totaled the car. She only ... A: It is, in fact, difficult to find a car on which the title history is disclosed and one that was a ...
totaled my friends car, my collision covered minus deductible, am i required to pay deductible?	6/2/2009
Q: I was driving my friend's car with permission for personal use in LA. I totaled the car. She only ... A: Had the car not been a former total loss, you would be liable for he deductible subtracted from the ...
Hitted by backing up car	5/28/2009
Q: One afternoon, I was making a left turn to enter a parking lot. The other drive before me stopped ... A: Anny, You have to realize that her insurance company is adverse to your interests, so they may say ...
unauthorized driver accident	5/25/2009
Q: "I rented a car in NY state and let my daughter drive unauthorized (close to midnight, the ... A: Rental car contracts are notorious for being unforgiving, so they may hold you responsible for the ...
Auto Insurance Claim	5/22/2009
Q: On Tuesday, April 28, 2009, the driver and passenger side curtain airbags deployed on our 2005 ... A: I would submit a claim under your comprehensive coverage with Allstate, giving them the name of the ...
Auto Insurance Claim	5/21/2009
Q: On Tuesday, April 28, 2009, the driver and passenger side curtain airbags deployed on our 2005 ... A: Well, it seems as if you are getting screwed from both ends. I think the existence of the ...
Auto Glass Claim Error	5/21/2009
Q: I recently made a claim with. my auto insurance company for vandalism done to my glass window on my ... A: Yes, Lynx is a company that provides auto glass repairs and replacement for insurance companies. ...
Auto Totaled -- Claim Adjustor wants loan number	5/20/2009
Q: Is it normal practice for a claim adjustor to ask for my loan number and name of loan company prior ... A: Rob, Not necessarily, but the lienholder on your car must be paid off prior to you receiving ...
suspend coverae on a totaled vehicle	5/19/2009
Q: I recently totaled a vehicle and my plans are to buy another in a month or 2. (just a inexpensive ... A: Brandon, When a car is declared a total loss the insurance company that provided coverage usually ...
Private Settlement	5/15/2009
Q: A week and a half ago I was involved in a very minor car accident. I was backing out of a parking ... A: Tara, I'm not sure of the limit in your state is for claiming damage caused by another party, but ...
NEED INSURANC HELP??!!	5/15/2009
Q: I was driving in traffic on the highway when it came to a stop. It wasn't a sudden stop, it was a ... A: As I said, you have the option of filing a claim with your own company and see what they come up ...
NEED INSURANC HELP??!!	5/15/2009
Q: I was driving in traffic on the highway when it came to a stop. It wasn't a sudden stop, it was a ... A: Kris, First of all, were you aware that the car had a salvage history when you purchased it? Did ...
Auto Glass Claim Error	5/15/2009
Q: I recently made a claim with. my auto insurance company for vandalism done to my glass window on my ... A: Josh, Given the fact that your insurance company chose the shop to do the glass work on your car, ...
total loss auto claim	5/15/2009
Q: Awful situation- hit and run accident, no gap insurance. The Body shop says the auto is repairable ... A: Alecia, The decision to repair or replace your vehicle is the sole discretion of your insurance ...
liability insurance claim	5/14/2009
Q: I was rear ended by a Geico customer - Geico has instructed me to see their adjuster & body shop. I ... A: Yes, you are entitled to the cost of the repairs and a claim does not mandate that the repair is ...
Becoming an auto appraiser	5/14/2009
Q: My wife is an SR claims adjuster and she talk's about the appraisers and what they do and it souns ... A: Byron, While the typical career path of a claims adjuster used to take one through the body shops, ...
Carjacking	5/11/2009
Q: I was recently carjacked 5/3/09, and was informed today that the vehicle was recovered. It is ... A: Your insurance company has the right to pay to replace or repair the car, whichever is less. You ...
Friend's boyfriend crashed my car	5/11/2009
Q: I allowed a friend to use my car. Without my knowledge, she allowed her boyfriend to take the car. I ... A: I was given the following information to pass along to you: May I respectfully add to the answer ...
insurance settlement	5/10/2009
Q: insurance company offering low amount in total loss of vehicle. I am in California. where can I seek ... A: Most auto insurance policies sold in the US are actual cash value (ACV) based. That is, the ...
Salvage deduction	5/8/2009
Q: How does one go about determining the salvage value of a car? Especially when dealing with an ... A: Typically an insurance company will deduct 20% from the actual cash value (ACV) of the settlement ...
Auto insurance process	5/7/2009
Q: Today morning when I was coming to office, In parking area sombody was backing up car to get his car ... A: Call your insurance company and explain what happened. Give them the name of the person who hit your ...
Who is Liable	5/7/2009
Q: I was involved in a multiple car collision. Driver 1 (who I believe caused the accident) lost ... A: Phil, Yes you have no recourse against driver #2 unless he admits having caused an accident to his ...
salvage total	5/7/2009
Q: what dows salvage total mean? A: Karen, The term salvage total refers to a vehicle's history of being damaged and written off as a ...
State Farm Diminished Value	5/6/2009
Q: I recently crashed my 2006 Chevrolet Corvette due to bad weather. Total repairs were over $14,000 ... A: Yes, they are using the 17C formula, which has been shot down in court numerous times since its ...
total loss valuations from adp	5/5/2009
Q: I was rear ended in sept 08 by a customer of progressive , they want to total my car a 73 lincoln ... A: The liability carrier of the at-fault party has to make you whole. That is, pay the cost to repair ...
uninsured driver driving insured vehicle	5/5/2009
Q: My friend and I were out one night, I had too much to drink and asked if he could drive as he had ... A: Your friend was driving your car under permissive use, which is when you allow someone to operate ...
Insurance - partial claim	5/4/2009
Q: I own a 1999 car, the rear bumper had scratches which I created while parking etc. the paint was ... A: Get an estimate for the repair of the rear bumper. Then have the shop deduct that amount of the ...
Claim denied due to facts not conclusive given state negligence laws	5/3/2009
Q: During a hail storm, I got hit by a driver who wasn't paying attention and proceeded to change lanes ... A: Lyn, Every insurance policy has a third party arbitration clause to resolve disputes over the ...
Claim denied due to facts not conclusive given state negligence laws	5/3/2009
Q: During a hail storm, I got hit by a driver who wasn't paying attention and proceeded to change lanes ... A: Lyn, Your best bet to get justice is to file suit in small claims court, naming the at-fault party ...
insurance claim/ 50/50	5/3/2009
Q: after accident insurance co says both partys at fault so fifty / fifty, in florida how do i find out ... A: Frank, I assume you are not contesting the 50 percent allocation of liability and fault in the ...
insurance claim	4/29/2009
Q: my neighbor backed into it while it was parked or will they pay me to fix it myself. A: Scott, You have a few ways you can go. First, get an estimate at the shop of your choice and ...
American Transit Insurance low ball my claim	4/29/2009
Q: I was re-ended by a NY taxi insured by American Transit Insurance, the estimated repair for the ... A: First of all, I am not a lawyer and cannot give legal advice. However, the at fault party is the ...
Police report codes incorret	4/28/2009
Q: I was involved in accident cominig off the Triboro Bridge exit ramp. I (V1) was in the right lane ... A: Pattie, I'm sorry for the misfortune of the accident, but your description of the events doesn't ...
Rear end passenger side accident	4/28/2009
Q: I am looking for a impartial opinion here. My 2000 excursion suffered an side collision. A S ran a ... A: You've got two options here: That is, with your own insurance company you have the third party ...
American Transit Insurance low ball my claim	4/25/2009
Q: I was re-ended by a NY taxi insured by American Transit Insurance, the estimated repair for the ... A: Absolutely, you can pursue this matter in small claims court. Chances are good that the taxi ...
Rear end passenger side accident	4/24/2009
Q: I am looking for a impartial opinion here. My 2000 excursion suffered an side collision. A S ran a ... A: It sounds like you are into one of the typical shooting matches between the adjuster and your ...
total loss claim	4/22/2009
Q: i got a car loan for 15,000.00 bought a car when the tag came in it said total loss i went back to ... A: The bank is not interested in the nature of the car you bought, but is concerned with the value as ...
I was in an accident	4/20/2009
Q: Heres my story and a couple of questions i have. i was driving on the freeway...everyones break ... A: Richard, Yes, you are entitled to a rental car until such time as the liability carrier of the car ...
damages to property	4/17/2009
Q: my daughter was involved in a single car accident involving our car. She damage the guardrail . ... A: Absolutely. In addition to the comprehensive and collision coverage on that car you also have ...
Car Insurance question...	4/16/2009
Q: I live in the state of Connecticut. I was wondering if you would know the answer to this what may ... A: To the best of my knowledge, and I should remind you that I am an expert in collision repair and ...
insurance claims	4/14/2009
Q: My car was stollen....does the insurance pay on the tradin blue book values or the retail bluebook ... A: Your insurance policy says they will pay the actual cash value (ACV)of your vehicle, which means the ...
salvage title	4/12/2009
Q: my car was damaged by hail 3 months ago and i was given the worth of the car in check form. i have ... A: You need to tell the bank of the loss to your car. Leave it up to them to determine whether its ...
Internal damage caused by dog	4/9/2009
Q: I have a people carrier with a large truck/boot. I bought it second hand a year ago. Our dog goes ... A: It sounds like you are from the UK based on the terms you use. However, insurance policies are ...
Got sandwiched in multiple rear-end collision involving 3 cars	4/8/2009
Q: I was rear ended from behind and my car went forward and hit the car in front of me. I filed a ... A: Generally speaking in the states, the person who began the multiple car collision is determined to ...
donot want to admit to what I have not done	4/7/2009
Q: I had met with an accident on march 14th. I had a green and I was going straight. The other person ... A: I'm afraid that assigning fault in a situation like this is out of my expertise, particularly ...
Auto Collision Claim Process	4/4/2009
Q: I was recently involved in an auto accident where I was rear ended by another driver. We pulled off ... A: In general, any collision that occurs rearward of the rear axle of a car is considered the fault of ...
Hubcap Damaged Hood	4/3/2009
Q: The car in front of me cut over pretty close to the front of my car, his hubcap came off, bounced up ... A: Yes, he is liable for the damage his loose part caused to your car. Contact the local police ...
denied auto insurance claim	4/3/2009
Q: Good afternoon, I was involved in a hit and run car accident which caused damages to my vehicle and ... A: Unfortunately, the insurance policy contains language that says you must be truthful in answering ...
Auto Insurance Claim	4/2/2009
Q: I was rear ended while I was legally stopped at a red light. The driver of the vehicle was a auto ... A: I would file a claim with the insurance company that insures the dealership that employed the man ...
total loss	3/31/2009
Q: my car was total lossed and i just got it and is still making payments and my girl friend told me ... A: Your situation is not uncommon. That is, your loan to value equation has you upside down (you owe ...
Dealer damaged my car	3/26/2009
Q: I had my car at the dealer for routine service. He damaged it getting in and out of his facility, ... A: Nasser, The dealer owes you both for the repair and the diminished value of the car. The fact that ...
Total Loss Settlement.	3/26/2009
Q: Help! I had 2004 Nissan Quest SE model which was fully loaded with navigation, dvd, cd changer, ... A: An insurance company owes you the actual cash value of the vehicle that was damaged. That means the ...
I was hit by someone that ran a yeild to ramp sign	3/25/2009
Q: I exited the freeway to turn right at the first street, I did not cross any white lines. The other ... A: That is a matter that will have to be settled in court. Any witnesses to the accident would be ...
I was hit by someone that ran a yeild to ramp sign	3/25/2009
Q: I exited the freeway to turn right at the first street, I did not cross any white lines. The other ... A: You didn't mention your own insurance and whether or not you filed a claim under your policy. I am ...
Auto Insurance Cancellation / Accident	3/23/2009
Q: I was involved in an auto insurance accident this morning that was my fault (slid off road from icy ... A: Insurance policies are very strict when it comes to payment and companies will do anything they can ...
My claim	3/20/2009
Q: My car caught fire from another truck parked beside my car.Fire investigator told me that truck got ... A: Erwin, The cause of the damage to your vehicle was the fire of the truck parked next to it. ...
Cat c	3/19/2009
Q: I've seen a car that I am interested in for my first car, it has a cat c claim against it and i was ... A: Steven, In the US, we don't categorize total losses the way they do in the UK. However, some total ...
need help	3/18/2009
Q: My car was involved in an accident. A SUV did not stop at stop sign, hitting my car and pushing my ... A: The insurance company, whether your own or that of the at-fault party, owes you the cost to replace ...
Diminished Value	9/18/2003
Q: Charlie, I'm trying get some understanding about diminished value. I own a 2002 Ford F150 Supercrew. ... A: Darin, Sorry for being so late in answering your question, but our power was out for 6 days due to ...
auto insurance claim	9/9/2003
Q: My question is about a claim I filed on the 26th of aug after a minor accident in which there were ... A: Call your insurance company and demand that they get someone out to see the car immediately. ...
Auto Claim	8/15/2003
Q: Sorry, I'll try to be brief. I'm a GA resident who was involved in an auto accident in SC. The ... A: Paul, You do not have to accept anything less than what you had prior to the accident. The at fault ...
car insurance for rental cars	8/10/2003
Q: I live in Canada. I got involved in a car accident in Chicago Illinois with a rental car. I had no ... A: Sonat, Look at it this way...if someone had damaged your new car would you let them (assuming they ...
Property damage - auto accident	7/31/2003
Q: Charlie, I'll try and make this brief. My wife works for American Airlines and she recently took a ... A: Harvey, You did not specify whether this adjuster is the at-fault party's insurer, but I will ...
claim or no claim?	7/9/2003
Q: My wife backed into another car, causing no damage to the other car, but about $300 damage to our ... A: Tim, This is a question I am often asked. First, your collision coverage is subject to a ...
total loss and loss of use	7/5/2003
Q: We were hit 1 month ago and we have no settled with the insurance company yet ( other party at fault ... A: They owe you the cost to replace your van with one of like kind and quality, plus sales tax and ...
What happens when an Insurance company deems a car "totaled"	7/4/2003
Q: My son has a '97 Ford Probe that was in good condition. He was hit in the rear, crushing in the ... A: First of all, you can take that car to any shop you wish for repairs. There are no laws that require ...
Auto insurance claim	6/30/2003
Q: A few weeks ago, I got into an accident with a taxi in DC. The taxi was double-parked and the ... A: Tracy, Let your insurance company sort out the blame and hope they get the other party to assume ...
auto insurance damage clims	6/29/2003
Q: Barone, Recently I accidently hit the rear bumper of a car while stopping at a red light.The other ... A: If you are not filing a claim under your collision coverage you do not have to submit to an ...
Auto Insurance	6/25/2003
Q: Charlie - My 12 year old Volvo is not worth more than $3,000-$3300 (based on quick valuation on ... A: Wayne, If it was my car I would not pay for collision and comprehensive coverage. However, this is ...

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