does vzw still have the policy that as long as the tracking number shows that I dropped the phone off at fed ex the phone is no longer my responsibility?
No idea, but if you can prove that someone other than you lost it (Fed-Ex, for example) they'll be more forgiving.
Also, you could talk to them about them honoring their insurance if they've lost it. While I don't know about Fed-Ex, I know UPS gives you an insurance amount of XXX amount of dollars automatically (I don't remember the actual amount). So if they've lost it, perhaps they'll honor the insurance up to the amount VZW will charge?
it hasnt been lost yet.... getting a warranty replacement to my pearl sent to me tomorrow... a couple years ago....... I had a warranty replacement sent to me and the rep at the store told me that... but I dont trust that its true so I am just asking