Dealing with issues such as vehicle damage claims and rental cars while you are recovering from a motor vehicle accident can be overwhelming. At the Hancock Injury Attorneys, our personal injury lawyers will handle your vehicle damage claim free of charge if we are handling your personal injury claim.
Our car accident attorneys will also help you file your no-fault claim against your own insurance company at no cost. Our goal is to handle all of the legal and financial issues of your case so you can concentrate on recovering your health.
What if the Insurance Company Offers Me Less Than My Car Is Worth?
Under Florida law, the insurance company is obligated to pay you either the cost of repairing your vehicle or the fair market value of your vehicle if it is a total loss.
A good way to determine the fair market value of your vehicle is to look at the Kelly Blue Book private party value. If the insurance company offer is close to that amount, they are probably treating you fairly.
If your car is fairly new and you are making payments on it, the fair market value may be less than the amount you still owe due to depreciation of the vehicle. If you have GAP insurance, this coverage would cover the difference between fair market value and the amount you owe.
Do I Have to Have My Vehicle Repaired at an Approved Body Shop?
Insurance companies usually have a list of approved body shops. However, you can have your vehicle repaired anywhere. If you choose to have your vehicle repaired at an unapproved shop, the insurance company will send an adjuster to estimate the reasonable cost of repairs. If the repairs run over that amount, the body shop will need to get approval from the insurance company.
Am I Entitled to a Rental Car?
When the car accident wasn’t your fault, the other driver’s insurance company should provide you with a rental car. If the insurance company refuses to do so, it may be because they have not yet accepted liability.
You may also have rental car coverage under your own collision policy. Our lawyers will review your coverage and explain your options. We represent auto accident victims in the Tampa Bay area, including St. Petersburg and Clearwater, and throughout Florida.
Questions about the Settlement Offer on your Property Damage Claim?
Call attorney Mike Hancock for your free case consultation at 813-534-6319. You can also reach us by e-mail.
