Not every auto accident is the same. For instance, a car that gets damaged by a rock and breaks the windshield is not the same as one where the car gets totaled and injures both the driver and passenger. Insurance companies also differentiate between the different types of accident claims and determine which type of damages a driver qualifies for based on their individual policy.
You should always review your policy to understand what it covers and what it does not. It also helps to know the most common types of auto accident claims so you can understand how insurance adjusters handle them and what you can expect. This also helps you in knowing which policy coverages are worth purchasing.
Filing Claims for Bodily Injuries
If you are involved in a truck or car accident that has caused you to sustain injuries, you need to file a bodily injury claim on this. In most cases, the victims file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Nevertheless, you will have to file a claim with your insurance company too if you live in a state that requires liability insurance to cover for personal injuries, or if you were the passenger.
Once you have filed a claim, the adjuster will then calculate your claim’s worth by evaluating the compensatory damages. Compensatory damages are further divided into general, as well as, special damages.
Filing Claims for Property Damage
These claims cover damages to property and vehicles that occur because of a car accident. These damages can be anything from a car hitting a mailbox or a truck crashing into a house. The insurance company of the at-fault driver will be responsible for paying the damages. In such cases, liability is determined by the vehicle, and not the driver.
It is recommended to file a property damage claim as quickly as possible. In cases where fault for property damage is evident, contact the at-fault party’s insurance to avoid paying your deductible to your own insurer.
However, in cases of hit and run accidents where there may be no information for the other driver, your only choice may be to go through your own insurance company.
Windshield Claims
Claims to repair chipped, cracked, or scratched windshields fall under the comprehensive auto accident claim coverage. Deciding whether or not it is worth to file a windshield claim can be tricky. Review your auto policy first before you file a claim. If you do file, your adjuster will first review your policy to make sure that you are covered for windshield repairs. Once it clears, take your car to the repair shop to have your windshield replaced or repaired.