I was rear ended in a car accident and need an opinion.

[EagleKeeper]

Tell them $3800 and you keep the van.

This is what I wanted to read....

That will only work if you determine the salvage value.

As stated before; have them identify where the salvage value came from.

And you yourself check out 3 local salvage yards to get your estimate.

If the info is not made available and does not seem reasonable; you can always threaten to / or go to the State division of insurance.
I had to do that once. The check increased by $500

 

[Schadenfreude]

That will only work if you determine the salvage value.

As stated before; have them identify where the salvage value came from.

And you yourself check out 3 local salvage yards to get your estimate.

The OP stated that the vehicle is worth $3600.00 - if he ends up taking this route it may end up hurting him as the insurance company valued his car for more.

 

[EagleKeeper]

The insurance company is stating that the salvage value is $1600.

That is what he should be questioning; not the stated book value

+/- $200 on the book value vs a possible $500 or more on the salvage value

 

[sactoking]

I wouldn't do this. If anything - make sure you call your local agent and not a national number.

I suggest getting a lawyer. They'll make sure you get the best deal.

Good luck finding an attorney that will take a strictly property damage case. There's no money in it.

 

[Kaieye]

Thanks for writing. I just want to read other people's ideas and opinions. I will call the insurance folks to see what we can both come up soon to settle this matter and not just let the ins. people dictate their terms...

 

[Bignate603]

You should have rolled out of the van and started flopping around on the ground.

But oh well, better luck next time.

I heard that the longer you hold out with an insurance company, the more money they will offer you.

It's funny how you think credit cards are of the devil but you're ok with insurance fraud.