2006-07-28 15:29:05 · 7 answers · asked by boohoo 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Insurance & Registration
If you're talking about monies they've offered you for your vehicle if it's a total loss, provide them with documentation (ads for the same vehicle, book values, other vehicles for sale) of the same vehicle being sold at a higher price. Make sure it has the same condition and mileage. If you just "think" they're lowballing you and that you should get more, but the documenation doesn't support it, you'll have a very hard time getting them to up the offer.
If you're talking about injury settlement, tell them you don't take the offer and tell them WHY you feel you should get more. How many doctor visits? How was your life impacted? Was there something you couldn't do for a week/month like mow your grass, play ball with your kids? If you're reasonable, most companies are willing to work with claimants.
The liability of an accident doesn't change how much a claim is worth, for a car or for an injury. It's not the lottery and you don't get a "bonus" for not being at fault. It's an accident, no one wanted it to happen and no one should benefit from it.
Do your research and make sure you're being reasonable in your requests given the facts and you should do well.
Good luck.
2006-07-29 02:34:35 · answer #1 · answered by ohso_quiet 4 · 2⤊ 1⤋
How do you know you are being lowballed?
It's like this: a vehicle, (like anything) is only worth what the market is willing to pay for it, thus the term 'market value'. An insurance co has NO obligation, legal or otherwise, to pay replacement cost, emotional cost, etc. Do some research, locate several cars as much like yours that are currently for sale. This includes mileage, options and condition. If they are selling for more than you are being offered then show the claims adjuster your documentation. Just keep your cool -- if he or she won't budge then ask for the manager and keep asking until one can reasonably explain why you are being offered less than market value. Don't be suprised if discounts are being taken due to condition, high mileage or custom / modifications on your car. These things DO NOT add value. PS. -- a lawyer will only take half of your settlement. They (unlike popular opinion) do NOT work for you; they only work for themselves.
2006-07-29 11:06:42 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
What were the details of the accident? What state are you in?
Depending on the details and on the state will state whether or not an accident is at fault.
An police report will let you know what the accident is filled under - but if you didn't file one - then you are on your own.
2006-07-29 16:05:01 · answer #3 · answered by PeppermintandPopcorn 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it has to do with the value of the automobile, they have to pay you replacement cost. Search the various sources to locate several that would compare to your, mileage, accessories and year. This will give you something to negotiate with them with. Good luck.
2006-07-28 15:55:32 · answer #4 · answered by Can do it man 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get a lawyer...but the lawyer will take a big cut as well.
2006-07-28 16:36:52 · answer #5 · answered by RunSueRun 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you cant..unless you get the accident off your record..
it doesnt matter whether it was at fault or not..
2006-07-28 15:32:07 · answer #6 · answered by mommy2savannah51405 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
consult with a lawyer
2006-07-28 15:32:54 · answer #7 · answered by Nattie B 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋