Paying attention to details is always important, especially when auto insurance is the topic at hand. Each policy is different, but personal auto insurance typically covers a car and the driver when most auto accidents occur.

From a crash to theft, you’ll often find coverage with the personal policy. The type of accident or incident and who is at fault will also play a role in how coverage is dispersed.

 

Who Pays After an Accident?

While there is a rule of thumb regarding who pays after a car insurance accident, the truth is – it depends on a variety of factors. Sometimes people pay for the repairs out of pocket.

In certain instances, each party’s insurance carrier pays for the repairs of their cars. However, most of the time, one driver is at fault for the accident. In these cases, the individual who is at fault will be held responsible. Their insurance will cover the damages on the victim’s car.

 

It’s Not That Easy

When you claim that someone else is at fault for an auto accident, you typically have to have some proof. If you don’t, then the other insurance company can deny the claim and all responsibility.

For instance, your claim could get denied because the driver was responsible, but not negligent when the crash occurred. This means the individual could have had a medical emergency while driving or swerved out of the way to avoid hitting an animal.

If you were in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, but you end up paying a deductible to get your car fixed – then you can take the person responsible to court and sue them. Just remember that you’ll have to show some proof in the courtroom to win, too.

 

Things to Do After an Accident

If you’ve been in an auto accident, there are a few things you need to do immediately. If you don’t do these things, you could end up hurting yourself in the long run.

First, gather all the necessary contact information from the other party. This includes:

 

 

• Other driver’s name

• Other driver’s address

• Other driver’s insurance company and policy information

• Call the Police right away to file a report

• Statements and contact information from any witnesses

• Photos from the scene of the accident using your smartphone

 

 

Once you have all this information, you should be set to move forward. Contact the insurance company of the other driver and make sure they have reported the accident.

You’ll also want to contact your insurance company, even if you were not at fault for an accident. This can establish good-faith with your insurer and ensure the case is handled properly from your end – if things were to go awry with the other driver’s insurance company.

Before you take the car to a body shop or visit a doctor, you need to get liability in writing. Make sure an insurance company has accepted liability and emailed you this judgment before you go ahead with anything.

 

Understanding Auto Insurance After an Accident

While navigating the wide world of auto insurance can be tricky, it doesn’t have to be. At Protective Agency Insurance, we have over sixty years of experience in the industry. We’re here to diligently work for you and offer affordable, high-quality insurance options. Get in touch today to learn more: (877) 739-9367