How NBCLA Successfully Handled an Insurance Claim
Lake Hughes Resident Receives Full Car Insurance Payout After Investigative Assistance
A Lake Hughes man has successfully secured full reimbursement from his insurance company after enlisting the help of NBC Los Angeles’ consumer investigative team regarding a dispute over repair costs linked to flood damage.
James Hornik reported that his 2016 Dodge Challenger sustained significant damage during the torrential rain and flooding that struck the Antelope Valley on Christmas Day last year. While attempting to navigate a flooded area near his home, Hornik hit a pothole, causing water to enter the engine.
“Our creek at the bottom of the street was flooded, and I just happened to hit a pothole crossing the creek. And it snorkeled water into the engine, and the engine was waterlogged,” Hornik explained.
His vehicle remained submerged in water for two days until rescued by his landlord with a tractor. Initially, Hornik’s insurance provider, Geico, proposed declaring the car a total loss; however, he advocated for repairs that included replacing the engine.
Though Hornik secured repair estimates amounting to approximately $8,000, Geico’s offer of around $4,000 fell short of covering the necessary work, leaving the car in limbo at the repair shop for nearly a month. Compounding the issue, Hornik faced significant health challenges that made negotiating with the insurer particularly difficult.
“It really took away from my focus on getting treatment at UCLA by not having my car for so long,” he remarked.
Faced with ongoing difficulties, Hornik reached out to NBC Los Angeles’ consumer investigative unit for assistance. Following contact with Geico’s corporate office, he reported a swift resolution.
“Within an hour or two … I received a call from Geico corporate, and we were able to bring up the amount that they were going to pay,” he said.
Ultimately, Geico increased the payout by around $4,000, which covered the engine replacement along with additional repairs. The insurer also agreed to address a separate prior claim involving cosmetic damage to the vehicle, including missing pinstripes and a logo.
Hornik expressed gratitude for the assistance from NBC Los Angeles, stating that he was able to get his car back on the road. In a statement, Geico acknowledged that the issue had been resolved but did not elaborate on why further intervention was necessary to reach a final payment.
