I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with my auto insurance claim and could really use some advice regarding towing and storage fees.
In early February, I was involved in a car accident in New York with someone driving a rental car. They came into my lane without seeing me and hit me. I filed a claim about two weeks later since the police had to contact the other driver for their personal auto insurance information; initially, they had only provided the rental company’s details. The police report confirms that the other driver is at fault. Since I only have liability coverage, I’m working through the other driver’s insurance company (let’s call it Company X).
It’s been over a month since the accident, and while Company X has obtained all my accident details, I’ve been calling them almost daily. They keep saying they’re still determining coverage with no updates. It’s frustrating, especially since it’s been nearly three weeks since I filed the claim, and over a month since the accident.
Today, I called the towing company where my car has been stored, and they informed me that they’re considering filing a small claims case since my vehicle has been there for over a month without any communication from anyone. They mentioned they would hold off on filing until next week, hoping for an update from me.
I reached out to Company X via email regarding this situation. The adjuster responded with a letter stating that I have a duty to mitigate my damages by removing the vehicle from storage. They mentioned that if they eventually accept coverage and liability, the last day they would cover storage fees is 3/10/25. Any fees incurred after that date would be my responsibility and deducted from my settlement.
I’ve emailed the adjuster with more questions, but now I have to wait until Monday for a response. This is the first I’ve heard about the limit on their coverage for storage fees. They haven’t even assessed my car for damages yet, so I’m not sure if it’s totaled or repairable.
When I spoke to the towing company with this new information, they told me I can’t retrieve my vehicle until I pay the accumulated storage fees. Shouldn’t Company X also assess the damages before I move the car?
I’m feeling stuck. What options do I have regarding the towing company and this entire situation? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation with your auto insurance claim and towing/storage fees. Here’s what you could consider doing:
Document Everything: Keep records of all your communications with both the insurance adjuster and the towing company. This includes dates, times, and details of conversations, as well as copies of emails.
Clarify the Adjuster’s Comments: Since the adjuster advised you to mitigate your damages and mentioned payment limitations, it’s essential to ask for clarification on what they mean and how you can properly document the situation. Make sure to confirm if they need to assess the vehicle before you take it out of storage.
Reach Out to the Towing Company: Explain your situation again to the towing company. Let them know you’re actively working on the insurance claim and see if they can provide you with a short extension on the payment. If necessary, ask if they can work out a temporary arrangement that allows you to retrieve your vehicle while the claim process continues.
Contact an Attorney: If the situation doesn’t resolve quickly, consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in insurance claims or auto accidents. They may be able to provide guidance tailored to your situation and help you navigate the complexities of dealing with the insurance company and towing fees.
Follow Up with Insurance: Continue to follow up with the insurance adjuster to ensure they are addressing the claim and assessing your vehicle. Ask if they can speed up the inspection process to prevent further fees from accumulating.
Consider Moving the Car: If you’re able to, and the towing company allows it, you could investigate moving your car to a location that may be less expensive to store while the claim is being resolved. Just ensure the insurance is aware of any changes so they can still assess it.
Understand Your Coverage: Make sure you fully understand your insurance policy and the coverage provided, including whether there’s rental car or transportation coverage while your vehicle is being repaired.
File a Complaint: If the insurance company continues to delay, you might consider filing a complaint with your state’s Department of Financial Services or the insurance commissioner.
It can be frustrating dealing with insurance and towing companies, but persistence and thorough documentation can be key to resolving this. Good luck!