Umpire
In an appraisal-clause dispute, the Umpire is the neutral third party who breaks ties when the two appraisers (one selected by you, one by the insurer) cannot agree on the vehicle's value. The two appraisers jointly select the umpire; if they cannot agree, a court typically appoints one.
Related terms
Appraisal Clause
An Appraisal Clause is a provision in most US auto insurance policies that lets either you or the insurer demand an independent appraisal when you disagree on the value of a totaled vehicle. Each side selects a competent, independent appraiser; the two appraisers select an umpire; and the resulting valuation is binding.
Binding Appraisal
A Binding Appraisal is the result produced by the appraisal-clause process. It is binding on the question of vehicle value but does NOT decide coverage, fault, or other policy questions. Once issued, both parties must accept the value and the insurer must pay it (subject to applicable deductibles).
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