Need Insurance Adjuster Advice

My '87 9000S with 126K was rear-ended with $5K worth of damage. I've only gotten one repair quote but in Wisconsin one quote is all that is required. It is still driveable so I am still using it. Since $5K goes over the Blue Book price the insurance co. will total the car out. If anyone has any tips on how to deal with insurance claims adjusters I'd be greatly appreciative on any advice. Is it worth hiring a 3rd party who specializes in dealing with adjusters? Thanks for any advice, Mark

Reply to
MarkC
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The first thing I'd say is that this is really specific to your state laws and insurance regulations. What the adjuster is required to do and your rights will definitely vary by state.

In general, the adjuster will first look over the car. He will estimate the cost of repairs. Then he will compare that to the value of the car. If it's close, hew may ask you what you want to do. I don't think yours will be close.

After a general determination is made on the value, he will attempt to actually verify the value through calls to dealers. Your car is old enough that I think he may end up using a Nada guide. In my state, they are required to pay you *retail*. That is, list price, they can't make assumptions about your bargaining skills at a dealer. They may also be liable for sales taxes and other initial charges.

Things I suggest: Call the state Attorney General and/or Insurance Commission and ask them what your rights are in terms of determining the value in your state. Also, be sure to ask about time frames for the Insurance company to complete their work and send you a check. Check the Nada "old car" book. Were you at fault ? If not, the other party is liable for your losses so you may be able to sue - again, that varies by state. The adjuster is often a 3rd party already... be nice, he holds a lot of power. Some are a pleasure to work with, others not. If you end up dealing with an insurance company directly, be nice there too. They can do things a bit faster when they want to. Remember that the Insurance company does not want to pay and when they a have to, they want to pay as little as possible as late as possible. Some are better than others.

Bob

Reply to
'nuther Bob

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