Here’s how to get your car repaired after a car accident. The repair options depend on who caused the accident. If you were at fault, the repairs will usually be paid for by your own insurer, but this will depend on what coverage you have. If you know another driver was at fault you should contact that driver’s insurer with your claim, supported by substantial evidence.
Who Pays For Car Damages After A Car Accident?
The party at fault for the car accident is typically responsible for covering the repair costs. Determining fault is a crucial step in the process. Once fault is established, the at fault party’s insurance should cover the damages. If you are found to be responsible for the car accident, your insurance policy will most likely be used to pay for the car accident repair, provided you have collision coverage.
The process typically works as follows:
- Accident Report
- Insurance Assessment
- Repair Authorization
As soon as fault is determined, the at fault party’s insurance company will authorize the necessary repairs, or if you were at fault, your insurance will handle the authorization if you have the right coverage.
After the accident, you must complete an accident report and submit this to the police and your insurance company. This report helps to determine who was at fault.
The insurance company will assess the damage and establish fault based on the accident report and any other available evidence.
Going Through Insurance for Repairs
You have two main options when it comes to insurance for car accident repairs: going through your own insurance or the at fault party’s insurance.
- If you have comprehensive or collision coverage, you may file a claim with your own insurance company. This may be the fastest option but could involve paying a deductible. Your insurer will then go ahead and request from the insurer of the at fault party to be reimbursed through a process called subrogation.
- You may also choose to file a claim directly with the insurer of the at fault driver. This might take a little longer as you are dependent on their insurance company’s timeline for conducting an assessment and approving the claim.
Both options involve the following:
- Contact your insurance company or the at fault party’s insurer to file a claim and provide all the necessary documentation and evidence of the accident.
- An adjuster will be sent to inspect your vehicle’s damage and estimate the repair costs.
As soon as the claim is approved, you may take your vehicle to a certified repair shop to get the necessary repairs completed.
Getting Help With a Car Accident Claim
If you weren’t injured in the accident, you can usually manage the claim process with the at fault party’s insurance company. Ensure you provide all the required information and follow up regularly to keep the process moving.
However, if you sustained injuries, the process becomes more complex, and it may be beneficial to seek legal assistance. A lawyer can help ensure you receive adequate compensation for both your car damages and personal injuries. Legal expertise can navigate the intricacies of claims and negotiations, potentially resulting in a more favorable outcome.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
For those who have been injured in a car accident, connecting with a personal injury attorney can be crucial. An attorney can provide personalized advice and help you understand your rights and options for compensation. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case, making legal support more accessible. Take our Free Case Evaluation to be connected with an independent personal injury attorney who subscribes to our website and may be able to help you with your case.
