QuestionQUESTION: In early Mar. I had a seizure while driving. My insurance comp. recommended and took my truck to a collision center to have it repaired. While being welded they caught the interior under the dash on the left side and the right front piller on fire. After they told me they didn't have any disire to eat the $8,000 neg. I was on the truck to give me another one, they tried to fix it and return it to me. It vibrated, backfired and smelled like smoke among other small things. Five months later I think I'm close to getting it back. But my insurance company(who has something to do with a lizard) says it is my responsability to go after the delarship who caught it on fire.
ANSWER: Hi Billy,
You should tell the Lizard to crawl back into the swamp.
If they are the ones that told you to go to that shop based on the idea that they would guarantee the work, then you bet your a_ _ they are responsible for the actions of the shop.
You should call the claims manager and demand that he or someone in authority meet you at the shop to inspect the vehicle before you pick it up. If there are any traces of the burns they caused you should demand that they make it right or write you a check for $5,000.00 for the loss of value of the vehicle. You ned to stand tough with these people. If they do not treat you fairly, then hire an attorney and sue them.
I hoe this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: So would $5,000 be the right amount? From what I'm told it smells fresh when the air is turned on. Thank you so much for your help!!
AnswerHi Billy,
Not necessarily. To determine the actual diminished value you would have to hire a professional diminished value appraiser who would inspect the car, review the damages and write an appraisal report. This will generally cost $300 to $400. For more information on diminished value visit www.collisionclaims.com .
I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh
