Nothing to do with the dealership. The finance owed is between your friend and the finance company. The accident occurred on a certain date, and it is from that date the loss occurs. If your friend has been deprived of their vehicle, they are entitled to an alternative vehicle. Does your friend have gap insurance? This would bridge the gap between the settlement and the finance owed. If they do not, then it would be up to your friend to pay the remaining finance owed. This means they would need to keep paying it until settlement is received, then claim these payments back.