DeTomaso Mailing List: January 98, Message #226
     



From: 	"Steve Liebenow" <steve.liebenow@eur.ericsson.se>

Subject: FYI Insurance Changes

Date: 	Wed, 7 Jan 1998 11:41:21 +0000



FWIW,



  When I was recently trying to get classic insurance (State Farm) on my 428 powered Fairlane station wagon, I had told my tale of woe about my Cougar getting "head on'd" while it was parked (and I was in China!). AAA was giving me the hose job on the value vs. repair cost thing and I had to fight to get the full amount needed to repair the car.



  So, I asked the State Farm agent about this. Her first statement was to the effect that it is better to be hit by AAA than to be  a AAA hitter! They seem to treat victims better than their customers.......

  Second point was regarding "stated value" vs actual value which can be a big difference as some of you know.  My agent stated that State Farm would be soon going to "stated value" only policies! I guess they can squeeze a few more bucks out of you this way..... but don't have to worry about the ill will created after they tried to hose you big time.....  Somebody finally woke up and decided we don't need the bad rap??

  I would venture to think that you will probably still have to prove the value of the car, but perhaps from the very start and not when you have a claim.  This still could be difficult....?... as they may want to keep numbers down???? or perhaps they won't care as long as you pay... and pay...and pay!?

  Anyway, it looks like at least this company is trying to take some of the pain out of settling with the insurance co. after an accident.



Steve