Should I Go Through My Own Insurance If I Wasn’t at Fault?
Last updated on July 25th, 2024 at 07:13 am
Navigating the aftermath of a vehicular collision is an unfortunate reality faced by drivers. In 2021 alone, over 2.1 million individuals sought emergency room care due to car accident injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Understanding the appropriate steps to take after an accident, particularly when you’re not at fault, is crucial. A common query that arises in such situations is whether contacting your own insurance is necessary. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons why engaging with your insurance company after a non-fault car accident could be advantageous.
Reasons to Contact Your Insurance Provider:
Encountering a car accident where you clearly aren’t at fault may leave you questioning the need to involve your insurance company. There are two primary motives for doing so:
Policy Obligations
Regardless of fault, one compelling reason to notify your insurance company after an accident is that your policy may mandate such reporting. Insurance policies commonly include specific clauses detailing your responsibilities following an accident. Failing to inform your insurer may lead to potential complications in the future.
Potential Coverage
Even if the accident was not your fault, your insurance policy might provide coverage to assist with damages and related expenses. This coverage could extend to medical bills, vehicle repairs, and even rental car expenses during your car’s repair. Engaging with your insurance company enables you to utilize these resources, alleviating the financial strain caused by the accident.
Concerns About Excess Payment for Non-Fault Accidents:
An apprehension many individuals harbor when contemplating involving their insurance in a non-fault accident is the prospect of paying an excess. Here’s how it operates:
Paying Excess
When you pay the excess for an accident where you aren’t at fault, you may initially bear this cost. However, upon resolution of the claim, you can seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, assuming you lack legal coverage for handling this matter on your behalf.
Steps for Seeking Reimbursement
In the event that you’ve covered the excess for a non-fault accident, several avenues can be pursued for reimbursement:
Through Your Insurance Provider
If your insurance company has managed the claim on your behalf, they should aid you in reclaiming the excess from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Legal Recourse
If challenges arise in recovering your funds, resorting to legal action against the at-fault driver’s insurance company becomes an option. Legal action can be a final measure to secure the compensation rightfully owed.
Credit Hire Companies
In certain instances, credit hire companies can assist in the reimbursement process, aiding in the recovery of the excess and other costs incurred due to the accident.
In Conclusion
Following a non-fault car accident, reaching out to your insurance company is a prudent step. This ensures adherence to your policy and opens avenues to access valuable coverage options, as well as reclaim excess expenses.
Your insurance provider can serve as a valuable ally in the intricate and demanding process of handling an accident. Remember, staying well-informed and making sound decisions for your well-being and financial security is paramount.
If you find yourself in this situation, consider seeking guidance from Davis Kelin, a reputable name in Albuquerque car accident law, to navigate the process and secure the compensation you rightly deserve.
