Q: Hello, I live in Arizona. In February, I purchased a new Honda Civic Coupe car that was stolen in August this year.
The car was recovered but it is trashed. My insurance insists on having it repaired but I do not want to do it. The estimate is in progress - the car has lots of scratches, a few dents but it is totally trashed inside - stains, cigarette burns, odor - I am afraid of drug residue and terrible smoking smell. Before theft car had 1700 miles, now it has 5085. The insurance refuses to pay for extra mileage and loss in value although their tear and wear exclusion does not apply to theft per their policy. My another concern is the way they handled the claim - I feel like I was treated as a criminal along with my husband. No options were given to me - I was told that I have no choice but to take what they offer. I really do not want a car - in spite of repairs, it will never be a pre-loss value. If i am forced to keep it, there is no way I will drive it. Can someone tell me what my options are, if any? Thank you
A:
Contact a member of the Arizona Trial Lawyers Assn who handles bad faith claims.They give free consultations. Get one. Chances are you are stuck, but you can also make sure you have a copy of the entire policy document and the insurance commissioner regulations. Your state may have a crime victims compensation act which may cover things your insurance doesnt.If they catch the idiots you can ask for restitution, but that takes time
Focus on what matters. 3300 miles sounds big but in the scheme of things isn't--assuming you were buying used the difference wouldn't make you do cartwheels on the price.
Look at the insurance commissioner regulations. You can call the insurance commissioner, or complaint to state farm HQ about your treatment as well.
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