How long does it take for auto insurance to pay out for no-fault accident?

Question:

Hello - I was involved in an auto-accident in March of 2006 in which both insurance companies (mine and hers) agreed that it was the other party's fault and I was a zero-liability. Their insurance company (let's call them "Venus", of ease) has asked for receipts ($1000 in rentals which my coverage does not cover), my deductible amount and any other amount which I had to put out (total is about $1,700). I have waited since April for them to pay me. I get letters from "Venus" every other week saying they are "pending further investigation" - but, I am at wits-end and want my money which I had to pay-out for an accident that everyone acknowledges is not my fault.

Does anyone know what the law/rules are in California and how long they can take to pay after they find the other party is at fault? Also, what can I word in a strongly worded letter to get this finally paid. I dont want to hire lawyer for such a low amount - but, that extra 1700 sure would be nice at the moment. Thanks! Chris

Answer:
Have you contacted your insurance company again? You pay them to protect you from companies like this. You should let them know what is going on, if needed, and you have full coverage they should pay out to you and go after the other persons insurance company in court if needed. If this does not work contact the California department of Insurance to report this company, they should help you.

Call them, don't write them.

If your insurance company has not paid anything on your behalf there is little they can do. Try contacting the insurance department for the state if you don't get any luck by going up the supervisory chain of command. Most of the time they have 30 days to make a payment if they have all the proof they need to pay it.

First of all, are you suing for property damage only? If you are, all you have to do is call and ask to speak with the adjuster's manager. Once they put you through to the manager, advise him/her about their employee. Considering liability is clear there is no reason for this investigation to be pending.

When it comes down to paying, you will only get the rental and deductible. If your insurance company needs to collect the money for fixing your car, they will subrogate on their own. That is no concern to you.

If you are trying to sue for injuries, you never mentioned any, so you probably are not entitled to anything other than how much the rental and deductible are.

You really shouldn't hire a lawyer for this b/c they get a 3rd of whatever you get. So considering you can't get more than 17K, you will have to pay up about 6K, just for the help.

Stay calm and write down the name/department of every person you speak to. Always ask for higher employees.

How long does it take for auto insurance to pay out for no-fault accident?

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