Auto Insurance Claims: rental insurance, rental insurance, tennessee law

Question
My husband was in an accident on June 10 and the other driver was found at fault.  I turned down an offer and was told that the check would be mailed anyway and the file closed.  I then talked to the superviser and was told that we needed to take the assessmant that they have to a body shop and see if anything else needs to be done on the vehicle.  I said we would get our own estimates from two body shops and give them to the insurance company and was told that I cannot do it that way.  I also have not received a rental car yet because finally today they reserve me one and I went down to get it and was told I would be liable for the car if I had an accident, I have only liability insurance so I did not take the rental car that is rightfully mine.  I called the insurance company and was told that by Tennessee law they did not have to pay the insurance on the car.  I do not think this is right, they are now not having to give me a rental car.  Is there anything I can do about this.

Answer
Hi Helen,

It is correct that you do not have to get multiple estimates. You do need to select the body shop that you would want to actually repair the car. Take your car to that body shop and give them a copy of the insurance company estimate. Ask the body shop to also write their own estimate. The insurance company will then send an adjuster to the body shop to inspect and approve any additional costs.

It is also correct that the insurance company is not responsible for paying the insurance on the rental car. If you decide not to rent a car while your vehicle is being repaired, you will be entitled to a cash payment for the loss of use of your car. A loss of use payment is generally $15 to $20 per day.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh