Auto Insurance Claims: claims on a stolen car, body shop business, appraisel

Question
I am an auto body collision and custom body shop owner. one of the cars I have previously build for a lady was stolen about two months ago, the insurance company paid for two old jackets she had in the car, and ofered her 21000 for her car, she has over 30000 in recipes for body paint and engine parts/ labor and an independent appraisel of 47000 does she have to take what the insurance company offers or does she have any other options? and how long do they have to let us know?  

Answer
Hi John,

As you well know being in the body shop business, insurance companies will often try to low ball people on claims.  If the appraisal she has is credible, she needs to submit the appraisal to the insurance company as evidence of the vehicle's value.

If they will still not budge, she may need to file a law suit against the at-fault person. If she does this, she may also need to have the appraiser come to court to testify as an expert witness.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh