My 2011 Optima was totaled; no fault of mine. NADA shows 183

by cclarkinspect » Mon Feb 03, 2014 05:25 pm

My 2011 Optima was totaled; no fault of mine. NADA shows 18325.00 as the value. I was offered 18325. Should I hold for a day and just to see what happens.

Total Comments: 5

Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 12:10 am Post Subject:

What are you expecting to happen?

Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 01:55 am Post Subject: reply

Total replacement of what I had is around 19800. Probably get for 18900-19000. I looked Saturday and couldn't find one at settlement offer.

Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 01:57 am Post Subject:

So someone has their list price at more then NADA?

Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 02:09 am Post Subject: reply

The one I had was loaded. I ordered it with all the bells and whistles and just put new tires. NADA doesn't allow for all features to be checked. I just need to know IF it is worth the fight and could I get more?

Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2014 04:30 am Post Subject:

Can you get more money? Yes, but you need evidence to support your request.
I've on occasion had my office set up as a satellite claim office so it gave me a little insight on how the process worked.

One thing is sure claim adjusters normally have a heavy caseload and may not spend a thorough amount if time performing due diligence on their offers. So they always want you to take the first offer so they can close the case and move to the next one.

First understand how the adjuster calculated their settlement offer. Normally they will find a number of comparable vehicles (same year make and model) in the area and "average" their costs. The key is asking to see what cars they used and how many. Some adjusters may be averaging vehicle (same year make and model) with less options though. Therefore resulting in a lower value(ex. one vehicle at 19k and one at $15k). So if you can provide a higher average price using vehicles with similar options as yours, then you will result in a higher total average. As long as they're the same year make and model it can inspire the adjuster to look further. This will result in a better chance to get a higher offer.
You may get the total amount you want or come closer. But it's still worth a try. At least you should get an easy $500 more (normal second offer). Which will get you closer. Hope this helps.

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