Auto Insurance Claims: My tires were stolen-- premium increase, state insurance commissioner, auto body shop

Question
My tires were stolen and my car was left up on blocks.  Will this affect my premium?  The auto shop where my car was towed also charged a lot in the quote, I believe some of these items are false, should I call and complain to my insurance company?

Answer
Hi Rich,

Answers to your questions: No, and Yes.  

First, your premium cannot be increased since this is not an at-fault claim.  Your state insurance commissioner http://www.settlementcentral.com/links.php has set rules that prohibit an increase in premiums for such a claim as yours.  Check it out and COMPLAIN if for some reason your premiums increase.

Yes, false items stated by the auto body shop should be reported to your insurance company.  But don't be surprised if the higher quote is actually justified inasmuch as some repairs -- even for damage in jacking up your car -- can cost a lot these days.  But if something that they are claiming is not truly involved, then it is the right thing to do just to ask your adjuster for an explanation.  If there is a problem, then she will take care of it.

Best wishes,

Dr. Settlement, J.D. (Juris Doctor)
www.SettlementCentral.Com