When the next earthquake hits, who is going to pay for the damage? Here is a story suggesting it will be taxpayers and not the insurance companies. Why? Basically because 86 percent of Californians have no earthquake insurance. I am…
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After an accident, who pays my medical bills?
I was involved an an automobile accident. I was injured and have medical bills. Who is responsible for paying the bills, my health insurance or the other party’s automobile insurance? Your medical insurance has to pay. They don’t have a…
Can they raise my rates?
One of the most popular questions I get: Can they raise my auto insurance rates for filing a claim? The answer: Only if you are at fault. The text of the law: The insurer also has the responsibility to determine…
GEICO To Offer Refunds
GEICO has agreed to settle a lawsuit brought by the Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights. GEICO will provide refunds of approximately $63 to California customers who were denied a discount because they did not provide proof of insurance when…
Can A Minor Buy A Car?
Can a minor (someone under 18) buy a car without parental consent? The general rule is that a minor cannot enter into a contract. If the minor does enter into a contract, then the minor can, at his or her…
Do You Need Comprehensive and Collision?
I have an older car. Do I need to keep my comprehensive and collision? The general rule is when the value of the car is less than the deductible plus the premium. At this point, you are better off saving…
More on Adult Kids Driving Cars
My adult son owns his own car, but lives with me. He was involved in an accident. Will they come after me? You should not face any liability if your son owns the car and was the driver. If your…
More on Insurance Fraud
I am not really sure how these two stories are related but they came across my desk and how could I not pass them on! First, in 2004, Joey Buttafuoco pleaded guilty to insurance fraud. He has now violated his…
Property Damage and the $5,000 check
Someone smashed into my parked car. His insurance company sent me a check for $5,000. I say the car’s worth more. Should I accept the check and sue for the other $2,000 or do I refuse the check and sue…
Getting more than one estimate
I damaged someone’s car and they got an estimate that is high. Can I make them get another estimate? No. You are obligated to pay the reasonable cost of repairs. If someone gets an estimate from a reputable body shop,…