Auto Insurance Claims: Fair Settlement, vehicle appraiser, displeasure

Question
My wife was involved in an accident that was the other driver's fault.  His insurance company has totaled the vehicle and is only offering us a low "cash value" for damages.  If the accident was his fault, why should we come out on the short end?  We can not replace our van for the amount offered.  Why shouldn't we get replacement value?  I have written to them twice to tell them my displeasure with their offer.  What more can we do?  The damages are surface only.  I would prefer to have the van repaired, but not under a salvaged title.  I need help!

Answer
Hi Mark,

You should demand that the insurance company provide you with the documentation they used to determine the value of your van.  You can then review it for errors. You should also check out the following websites:

1) www.nada.com
2) www.kbb.com
3) www.edmunds.com
4) autotrader.com

The last one will allow you to search for similay vehicles that are actually for sale in your area. Average all the value infor you find and present it to the insurance company to negotiate a fair value.  If this does not work you can hire a professional vehicle appraiser. This will generally cost you $200.00 to $300.00.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh