We have a 22-year-old custom high-top van that was recently rear-ended twice by a woman driving at a slightly higher speed. The impact left the rear bumper damaged and caused some dents in the rear doors, but thankfully, all the lights are functioning, and there’s no broken glass.
Now, the insurance company is insisting on totaling the van and offering us around $3,000. However, our van is in excellent condition, well-maintained, and regularly undergoes thorough checks. We prioritize maintenance over repairs when things break. GEICO is requesting the title before they release any funds, but we’re not willing to give up the van or the title. This has created a deadlock.
We’ve owned this van since brand new and have cherished every moment with it. I’m confident it’s worth much more than their lowball offer of $3,000. Has anyone experienced something similar? What steps can we take to resolve this? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
It sounds like you’re in a tough situation with your van, especially since you have such a strong emotional attachment and the vehicle is in great condition despite the damage. Here are some steps you can consider taking:
Get a Professional Appraisal: Consider getting an independent appraisal of your van’s value. You can show this to the insurance company as evidence that the van is worth more than their offer. Make sure the appraisal takes into account the van’s condition, maintenance history, and any customization you may have done.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of the van’s maintenance, upgrades, and any relevant history. High-quality photos of the van, both before the accident and after, can also support your case.
Negotiate with the Insurance Company: Use your appraisal and documentation to negotiate. Be firm but reasonable with the insurance adjusters. Sometimes, they might be willing to reconsider if faced with evidence of a higher value.
Check Your Policy: Review your insurance policy’s terms regarding total loss and what they consider to be fair market value. Sometimes policies allow for negotiations based on sentimental value or specific conditions of the vehicle.
Explore Alternatives: If negotiations don’t yield results, you can consider filing a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner or seeking legal advice to understand your rights.
Consider Repairing It Yourself: If you feel confident and have the resources, you might also consider getting the repairs done yourself without going through the insurance process. Just be cautious of any implications that might have on your insurance in the future.
Community and Online Forums: Reach out to online forums or local van enthusiast groups. Others may have had similar experiences and could offer valuable advice or even assistance.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and many have faced similar challenges with insurance claims. Good luck, and I hope you can find a resolution that works for you!