Q: What is the best course of action to take when you suffer property damage and loss of income.

The accident involved a tractor trailer and car. The car veered a considerable distance over into the tractor's lane. The insurance company is stalling and the tractor is the drivers livelihood. The claims agent said he would not send out an adjuster and after "his" investigation determined fault then his insurance company would "consider" making payment. Do I really need to have their adjuster or use my repair shop estimates?

2 Lawyer Answers

A: Not sure whose adjuster/claims agent it is. However understand if police were called the police report will be used. Also if you have collision, use that, let your company go after theirs. Most states require that property damage be settled promptly and fairly You can always file a complaint with the insurance comissioner, especially after 30 days. If you were hurt, contact a member of the Va. Trial Lawyers Assn for the county where it happened--they give free consults.

1 user found this answer helpful

A: Anyone can use the estimates of their own shop, but if a carrier is paying for repairs, they generally reserve the right to have their adjuster see the vehicle, whether on the street or in the shop, and have their adjuster review the figures of the independent shop. Good luck.

Tim Akpinar

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