In the aftermath of a car accident, determining who is responsible for covering the costs of damages can be a complex and contentious issue. Several factors come into play, including state laws, insurance coverage, and the circumstances of the accident.
If you have been in a car accident that has caused serious damage to your property and left you traumatic, a car accident lawyer can help you get compensation for your loss. However, how can you decide who is going to pay for your damage? Here is a breakdown of who typically pays for the damage caused in a car accident.
1. Insurance Company Of Driver At-Fault
In most cases, the insurance policy of the at-fault driver is responsible for covering the damages resulting from a car accident. This is why determining fault is a crucial step in the claims process.
If the at-fault driver has liability insurance, their policy will typically cover the cost of repairs to the other driver’s vehicle, as well as any medical expenses or property damage incurred by the other party.
2. No-Fault Insurance System
In some states, a “no-fault” insurance system is in place, which means that each driver’s insurance policy covers their medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. However, property damage claims are typically handled under the at-fault driver’s liability coverage.
In these states, drivers may still pursue a liability claim against the at-fault driver for property damage exceeding their insurance coverage limits or for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
3. Uninsured Or Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you are involved in a car accident caused by a driver who either has no insurance or insufficient coverage to fully compensate you for your damages, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may come into play. This coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver is unable to pay for the damages they have caused.
You can file a claim with your own insurance company to seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, up to the limits of your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
4. Applying For Collision Coverage
Even if you are not at fault for the accident, you may choose to file a claim under your collision coverage to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
Collision car insurance coverage is optional in most states, but it can provide valuable protection in situations where the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient or if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident where the at-fault driver cannot be identified.
5. Taking Legal Action
If the insurance claims process fails to provide adequate compensation for your damages, you may choose to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver. A personal injury attorney can help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages not covered by insurance.
Additionally, if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, a lawsuit may be necessary to recover the full extent of your losses.