Auto Insurance Claims: Loss of use/property damage, course adjustments, approximently

Question
Other parties insurance has taken 2-1/2 months to claim liabilty and finally has. The car is a total loss and is worth $3,900.00 Kelly Blue. Approximently what do you think I should expect from them for property damage and loss of use of vehicle, The vehicle was a gas saver and every day use vehicle because it was a gas saver. My estimating vehicle as I am self employed. It slowed business down with out a car to find and get and do work. I been out the vehicle for 2-1/2 months and it has greatly disturb my life especially for the uncalled, not right, dragging their feet insurance company. I do not want to get burn. Advice please!!

Answer
Hi Sean,

The law requires you to mitigate your loss. This means you have an obligation to minimize your loss. When there was an issue with the insurance company accepting liability, you should have put the claim through your own collision coverage. If you did not have collision coverage on this vehicle, then you will have to negotiate the best deal you can.

You should look up www.autotrader.com . Look up vehicles like yours with the same year, make & model within 100 miles of your zip code. Find 5 or 6 vehicles like yours and average the values. That will give you a high end figure. Of course adjustments would need to be made for differences in options, condition and mileage. This will give you a starting figure to negotiate from. It may be necessary to hire an appraiser to help you determine a value. However, wait to see what the insurance company offers you. You may get lucky and get a reasonable offer.

As for the loss of use, that will be another negotiation. You should ask for $20.00 per day but we willing to negotiate.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh