Auto FAQ
Auto FAQ's
The Olinger Insurance & Financial Group, is a multi-line insurance agency, providing personalized insurance coverage for families and businesses, serving clients in Lee's Summit, Overland Park, Independence, Kansas City and throughout Jackson and Cass Counties, Missouri. Our services include Auto, Home, Life,& Business...
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The company is not paying me fairly on my total loss. How do you establish a vehicles value?


Sources such as book value and dealer quotes can be considered. If the value is disputed by either you or the insurer based on those sources, the only accurate determination can be made with similar vehicles available in the market.  The condition of the vehicle, mileage and options are all used in determining your vehicle's value.

 

An auto insurance company is not offering to pay 100 percent of my damages on a liability claim. Can you help?

 

The States have the authority to determine if the insurer conducted a complete investigation prior to making their determination of fault. The various departments of Insurance, do not have the authority to decide issues of fault in an accident. If you do not agree with the insurer's assessment of fault, you have to ask the courts to rule on the matter or pursue your claim under your own policy of insurance.
 

 

The other insurance company won't pay for a rental car on my liability claim. Don't they have to?

          Not in all situations. If you have no other vehicle available, the insurer should cover the cost of a rental as part of your damages from the accident at least until they determine the loss on your car. No insurance statutes exist on this issue.

 

Can an insurance company write an estimate using parts not made by the original manufacturer or salvage parts?

         Yes, they do not have to put new parts on a used vehicle. A company only has to return the vehicle to its condition before the damage.

 

I submitted two estimates, and the insurance company revised the estimate and paid me based on the revised estimate. Can they do this?

       Yes, as long as the revised estimate properly repairs your vehicle. You need to have your body shop review the revised estimate. If they feel they cannot properly repair your vehicle based on the revised estimate, the repair facility should  contact your          adjuster.

 

Can the insurance company tell me where to have the repair work done under either homeowners or auto?

      Yes, if the insurance company is willing to guarantee the work. You always have the option to       go to the repair shop of your choice, but you will be responsible for the additional costs. Your insurance company may only be obligated to pay for the             lowest estimate.

 

What is comparative fault?

Pure comparative fault allows your damages to be reduced by the percentage you are at fault in a loss. Insurers are allowed to investigate an accident and make a decision as to the percentage of fault of all parties involved. They will make voluntary offers based on this opinion. If you disagree with their evaluation, you should consult an attorney or turn over the matter to your own insurance company to handle under your collision coverage.

I've had an accident with an uninsured motorist. What do I do?

          Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles in your State. They enforce the financial responsibility (mandatory liability) laws in your State. They will investigate and, if necessary, enforce the statute. Also, if you were injured, you will want to report           the loss under your  uninsured motorist coverage with your company.

 

What does uninsured motorist coverage cover?

         Uninsured motorist coverage applies to bodily injury only. Your uninsured motorist coverage will protect you from hit-and-run drivers. It covers you for injuries sustained while in your car or as a pedestrian when hit by an uninsured driver. It does not cover damage to your vehicle.

 

Do you have to buy uninsured motorist coverage on an auto policy

        Many States do require this, although a few States will allow you to sign a waiver to remove it. You will need to check with your agent to see what your State requires.

 

Can the driving/accident records of my child/spouse have an impact on my ability to buy auto insurance?

       Yes, the driving record of any licensed driver in your household will affect the decision of the insurance company to insure your vehicle(s). It can cause you to be turned down for insurance coverage or to pay high risk insurance premiums. You may  want to ask your agent or insurer about a driver exclusion endorsement.

 

Can a finance company take out insurance on my car and charge me for it?

      Yes, if under the terms of your loan, you agree to provide comprehensive and collision insurance, and you fail to do so. The lending institution can obtain a policy to protect its interest. These policies typically do not offer liability insurance coverage to meet the state's financial responsibility (mandatory liability) laws.

 

Is it legal for an auto insurer to place me in a high risk policy if I have not been insured in the last 30 days?

This can vary State to State. We advise you check with your State Dept' of Insurance. This situation can be avoided by paying your premiums on time to avoid lapses in coverage.