Auto Insurance Claims: Total Loss on 1979 Datsun 280ZX, hail damage, datsun 280zx

Question
QUESTION: A lady changed lanes into my 79 Datsun 280ZX.  She claims 100% fault to the police officer.  The adjuster came out and estimated $2,000. for repairs to left door and back panel and $500 prexhisting hail damage. The loss spec. said cash value of vehicle was only $1,200.00 he said car had been totaled before I got it. I said it seemed low, I didn't have a clue about wreck before I owned it, the car was looked at by their adjuster said only $500.00 worth of preexising hail damage, I had kept car up, he said send him receipts, which I did with copy of NADA stating average retail $5,400. Then adjuster went on holiday, new adjuster said I had refused offer and now she would be offering me a lot less because of milage and undercarriage wear.  Help!  I drive my car to work everyday, I'm a single woman, this car is so reliable, and dependable, and not the culprit of this accident doesn't even have to pay me the damage they caused?! I love my car, plus, I never said the word "refused." I know I am going to get what they say basically.  What should I do.

ANSWER: Hi Gail,

First of all you need to realize that you are dealing with idiots who will do or say anything to pay you as little as possible. It is true that if your vehicle was previously totalled it would be worth 40% to 50% less than standard values.

Taking off additional money due to wear on the undercarriage is crazy on a 28 year old car. Unfortunately, you just have to play their game or you can file a law suit against the at fault person. You should look online for cars like yours and what they sell for. You should also demand that they provide you with the dicumentation they used to determine your cars value. Just keep sending them info supporting your position. Escalate things to the claim supervisor or manager. The louder and longer you scream the more money you will ultimately receive.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Where would be a good place to look for a 1979 Datsun 280ZX on line?  Already tried www.autotrader.com (their earlies year is 1980)and www.edmunds.com (nothing) - and would MY liability ins. Uninsured motorist/property damage coverage help me out at all?

Answer
Hi Gail,

Due to the age of your car it will be difficult to find similar cars for sale. You can try just going to Google and type in the year make and model. This will present you with many results. You will just have to sort through them until you find several that are actually for sale. You also try checkig ebay motors.  Good luck!

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh