Who Pays For Damage To My Car In A Car Accident?
If you’re in a car accident, who pays for the property damage to your car?
It depends.
1. IF THE ACCIDENT IS YOUR FAULT:
You only have one choice – your car insurance company will pay for your property damage. Your premium will go up, and if you have a second accident that’s your fault, the insurance company will probably tell you to find another company.
2. IF THE ACCIDENT IS ANOTHER DRIVER’S FAULT:
Most people don’t know that if the accident is caused by the other driver, then you have a choice:
1. You can choose to have the other driver’s insurance company pay for your car repairs. In that way, you will be paid in full.
2. You can choose to have your own insurance company pay for your repairs. If you do this, you will receive an amount to pay for your repairs minus your deductible (usually $500). Your deductible will then be paid by the other driver’s insurance company within a few months.
If you can wait a few months to have your deductible paid, then you should choose to have your own insurance carrier pay for your repairs. It is probably quicker and easier than dealing with the other party’s insurance company.
If you have any questions regarding a car accident in Chester County or dealing with the repairs to your car, please give us a call at Karp & Hart.
Steve Karp
