I have a 1995 SL-1 with only 16,200 miles on it. It is also an Arizona car that has never been driven in snow. It recently was involved in a hit and run accident but I got the plate number and the perpretrator was apprehended. Now, my problem is getting both insurance companies to agree on an ACTUAL value. My insurance company wants to total it.[img]smileys/smiley7.gif[/img] But, the other guy's insurance is saying "maybe" they'll repair it. I think they see me hiring a lawyer.


Anyone know where to get a FAIR appraisal? Blue Book for an 11 year old car with only 16,000 miles is rediculous.Edited by: Waterbug

go to kbb.com

kbb.com (Kelly Blue Book) says about $2,300. Where in the world would I find a car with only 16,000 miles for $2,300. I'll buy all you can find. 95 SL-1s with 35,000+ miles are selling for over 5 grand, if you can find one.

that is weird, i know in modesto ca where i live it would sell for about 4,000

I live in Michigan, where most 10 year old cars have some rust due to road salt in the winter. However, this is an Arizona car. My insurance adjuster says that only vehicles within 500 miles of my location would be considered as a basis for determining value [img]smileys/smiley7.gif[/img]

well that should make the car worth even more, because it is rust free

Nope ! Blue Book is all about AVERAGE. The more exceptional your vehicle, the more book value screws you.

If the car is damaged you really aren't going to get a fair appraisal, it's like everyone has their own opinion and it sucks. if it was the others guy's fault, i would suggest suing the person, you shouldn't have to take the hit foranother persons stupid mistake.

The other guy was ARRESTED for hit and run, evading arrest, driving without a license, etc.and the county prosecutor is going after restitution as part of the sentance. But, (and it's a BIG but) if I accept the insurance settlement it usually means that you can't sue. If you don't accept the insurance settlement, it could take forever to get anything out of a dead beat who may even end up in jail. It's a no win situation if I can't get the insurance company to come around.

Man Waterbug... I feel your pain. We had bought a 2000 ford Expedition that was salvaged and rebuilt. My wife wrecked it in the snow, and since it was a salvaged vehicle, the only offered us 60 percent of the bluebook. Nevermind it had oversized tires and a lift kit, and a bunch of extras. I don't know what to tell you. You will probably want to get legal advice. Since the vehicle is worth much more because of its low milage, but the insurance company isnt going to see it that way. I would say to get a lawyers advice first. Please let us know how it all works out.