Will I get swindled?

[clbell]

Firstly, I live in North Carolina.

I was rear ended recently. The person has Horace Mann Insurance. They sent an appraiser out to make an estimate of damages.

Now, they are sending me a check for the estimated amount. They have assured me that they will pay the difference if it costs more than the estimated amount.

Am I risking anything by handling it this way? The last wreck I had (which also was not my fault), the insurance company dealt directly with the repair shop and I had no worries. I am concerned that when I cash that check, they are no longer legally required to pay any more than they have.

Thanks,
Chris

[seniorjudge]

Chris, get everything in writing.

If it is not in writing, it does not exist. If it is in writing, then that is the way it happened.

[isue4you2]

What exactly does the wording on the check say? If it says full and final settlement, you will want the letter suggested above before you negotiate the check.

[clbell]

Originally Posted by isue4you2

What exactly does the wording on the check say? If it says full and final settlement, you will want the letter suggested above before you negotiate the check.

I don't have the check yet. So, If I get them to state in writing that they will pay extra damages beyond the first check then that should be enough?

By the way, thanks for the quick replies.

[isue4you2]

Yes. Get the letter, and there should be no problem.

[CraigFL]

Call me a skeptic but I would get the final amount all in one shot. What do you think will happen if they need to send another $150.00. It won't be worth your time to try to collect it. Something is fishy here...

[isue4you2]

Its a reputable company, and if there is supplemental damage they will pay for it. Get the letter, if only to ease your mind.