Buzz,
I didn't read any of the other repsonses but
Why didn't you file a claim on your auto insurance? You have three years to do this. This claim would go under comprehensive coverage and you would not see a raise in your rates (at least in California). I carry a $100 deductible and had a tire blow out and damage my rear fender a few years back. My auto insurance paid for all the damage to the truck. The only thing it didn't cover was the tire. Let your insurance company go after the tire manufacture and or you go after them to at least pay your deductible.
nolan
