Legal Question in Insurance Law in New Jersey

Re: Comprehensive Auto coverage

I am NOT an expert in this area, and I would urge you to get an opinion from an attorney who deals with automobile insurance law (NOT just car accidents).

That said, I think I understand what GEICO is saying. They put in a new engine because the old engine was destroyed by flood. So, you have a new engine and they want you to pay them for putting in a better engine than was in there before. I can not say any words printable in a family newspaper. What a bunch of jerks.

I have a different question: when a car is flooded, there is hidden and serious rust damage to the body, damage to the wiring, LOTS OF DAMAGE. Most of the time, the insurance company decides that the car is totally destroyed, and that is that. Why is you car NOT a 'total' loss? Why are you not getting a check for the whole value of the flooded car?

Take your car to your own mechanic (someone you REALLY trust), and have a thorough evaluation (pay for this service and get a WRITTEN report) telling you everything damaged by the flood.

And talk to a lawyer who has handled disputes with insurance companies over damage to vehicles.

Do all of this BEFORE you sign anything, BEFORE you cash their check.

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