If you’ve been in a car accident and the other driver is at fault, typically you’ll need to work with the at-fault driver’s car insurance company for repairs to your vehicle. However, you can also use your own insurance and they will deal with the at-fault driver’s insurance company at a later date. If you have questions about these insurance issues, call Williams DeLoatche, P.C. today.
Here are the steps to take:
- Gather information: gather everything related to the accident – other driver’s insurance information, the contact number and address and the police report. Take pictures, if possible.
- Contact their insurance company: call the at-fault driver’s insurance company to report the accident and file a claim. You’ll need the police report, date/time/location, including a description of what happened.
- Contact your insurance company: the other driver’s insurance company may try to delay the payment during their investigation. Contact your insurance company to report the damage and they can work with at-fault driver’s insurance company.
- Schedule an inspection: the insurance company will most likely send out an adjuster to assess the damage to your vehicle and recommend a preferred repair shop(s).
- Choose a repair shop: you can choose from several preferred shops provided by the insurance company or find your own. You will need to provide them with the information from the insurance company.
- Understand the costs: make sure you understand how much the repairs will cost and what out-of-pocket expenses you may incur, such as a deductible. Keep all documentation from the insurance company and the repair shop.
- Monitor the repair process: once your car is in the shop, keep in touch with the repair shop
- Inspect the repairs: once your car is fixed, carefully inspect the repairs to make sure the work has been done satisfactorily. Report any issues to the repair shop immediately. If further authorization is needed, typically they will contact the insurance company.
- Settle the property damage claim: let the insurance company know when the repairs have been completed to your satisfaction so they can close the claim.
If your car is deemed totaled, research the value of your car online on sites like Kelley Blue Book, to negotiate with the insurance company.
Accident Related Vehicle Damage FAQ’s
Here are detailed answers to the FAQs regarding vehicle damage in an accident:
1. What should I do immediately after my vehicle is damaged in an accident?
Immediately after your vehicle is damaged in an accident, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. If the vehicles are drivable, move them to a safe location to avoid further accidents. Document the scene by taking photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs. Exchange information with the other driver(s), including names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Lastly, notify the police and file a report if required by local law.
2. Who is responsible for paying for vehicle damage in an accident?
Responsibility for paying for vehicle damage depends on who is at fault for the accident. If another driver is at fault, their insurance should cover your repair costs. If you are at fault, your insurance will cover the damages, depending on your policy. In no-fault states, each driver’s insurance covers their own damages regardless of fault.
3. How do I file a claim for vehicle damage after an accident?
To file a claim, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary information, including details of the accident, photos, the police report, and contact information of the other driver(s). An insurance adjuster will be assigned to assess the damage and guide you through the claims process.
4. What information do I need to gather at the accident scene?
Gather the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved. Record the make, model, and license plate numbers of all vehicles. Take detailed photos of the scene, the damage to all vehicles, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information as well.
5. How long do I have to report vehicle damage to my insurance company?
The timeframe to report vehicle damage varies by insurance company and policy, but it is generally recommended to report it as soon as possible. Some policies may have specific deadlines, such as 24 hours or a few days after the accident.
6. Will my insurance rates go up after filing a claim for vehicle damage?
Filing a claim can potentially lead to an increase in your insurance rates, especially if you are found to be at fault. The impact on your rates depends on your insurance company’s policies, your driving record, and the severity of the accident.
7. Can I choose my own repair shop, or do I have to use one recommended by my insurance company?
Many insurance companies allow you to choose your own repair shop, but they may also have a network of preferred shops. Using a preferred shop can streamline the claims process and may come with guarantees on the repair work. Always check your policy details and discuss options with your insurance company.
8. What if the damage to my vehicle is greater than its value?
If the repair costs exceed the vehicle’s value, it may be declared a total loss. In this case, the insurance company will offer you the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle before the accident, minus any deductibles. You can use this payment to purchase a replacement vehicle.
9. What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or has insufficient coverage?
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance policy may cover the damages if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage can help pay for repairs and medical expenses up to the limits specified in your policy.
10. Can I get a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
Rental car coverage is often included in auto insurance policies, but it depends on your specific policy and coverage limits. If you have rental reimbursement coverage, your insurance will cover the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
11. What happens if my vehicle is declared a total loss?
If your vehicle is declared a total loss, the insurance company will determine its actual cash value (ACV) based on factors such as its age, condition, mileage, and market value. You will receive a payment for the ACV, minus any deductibles, and your damaged vehicle will typically be taken by the insurance company.
12. How is the value of my vehicle determined in case of a total loss?
The value of your vehicle in a total loss situation is determined by its actual cash value (ACV). This takes into account factors such as the vehicle’s age, condition, mileage, and market value. The insurance company may use valuation guides, market comparisons, and appraisals to determine the ACV.
13. Can I dispute the insurance company’s assessment of my vehicle damage?
Yes, you can dispute the insurance company’s assessment if you believe it is inaccurate. Provide additional evidence such as photos, repair estimates, and vehicle valuation reports to support your case. If necessary, you can hire an independent appraiser or seek legal advice.
4. What if I discover additional damage to my vehicle after the initial repair?
If additional damage is discovered after the initial repair, contact your insurance company immediately. They may reassess the damage and cover the additional repairs, especially if it is related to the original accident.
15. How do I handle vehicle damage if the accident occurred out of state?
If the accident occurred out of state, follow the same steps for documenting the accident and gathering information. Notify your insurance company and provide all relevant details. They will guide you through the claims process, which should be similar regardless of the state where the accident occurred.
16. What should I do if my vehicle is damaged in a hit-and-run accident?
If your vehicle is damaged in a hit-and-run, report the incident to the police immediately. Provide as much information as possible, including any witness statements. Contact your insurance company and file a claim under your collision coverage or uninsured motorist property damage coverage if you have it.
17. What are my options if the insurance company denies my vehicle damage claim?
If your claim is denied, request a detailed explanation from your insurance company. Review your policy to understand the coverage and reasons for denial. If you believe the denial is unjustified, you can appeal the decision, provide additional evidence, or seek assistance from a lawyer or your state’s insurance department.