Car Accident Property Damage Claims Guide

No one counts on having an accident, but statistics show that they happen more frequently than you might think. In fact, the average driver in the United States will have three or four car accidents in his or her lifetime. The average number of car accidents in the U.S. is 6 million, and approximately 72% of them result in some sort of property damage.

Being involved in any type of accident is stressful in and of itself, but it is often just the beginning of a long and arduous journey through legal, insurance, and health-care systems. If you have recently been involved in a car accident, your head is probably buzzing with questions. Today, we are taking a look at some of the most frequently asked questions, so buckle up and read on!

Car Accident Property Damage

What counts as property damage?

Roughly 72% of car accidents result in property damage, so let’s take a closer look at what property damage is, answered by a property damage claim lawyer. Property damage is destruction or damage to public or private property. This covers everything from cars, trees, and homes, to fences, or any property in the vehicle itself. This can be your laptop, a car seat, or even textbooks.

Can you sue for property damage in a car accident?

If you caused the accident, you need to file a car accident property damage claim with your insurance company. Keep in mind that you will need to pay the deductible, which often ranges from $500 to $1500. If the damage is minor, the cost of repairs might be less than the deductible, in which case you will want to pay for the repairs.

However, if another person caused the accident and he or she does not have insurance, you can file a lawsuit against that person. Keep in mind that you will need to win a judgment and then enforce the ruling, which can take a long time. If you do not want to wait, you can file an auto accident property damage claim with your insurance company. This will also require a deductible, but some companies will try to collect your deductible amount from the person who hit you in order to refund you.

What is covered under property damage auto insurance?

But what about property damage car insurance? After all, drivers are required by law to have it. In a nutshell, this type of insurance covers damages caused to others and does not cover damages to your property. This, in turn, is covered by comprehensive and collision coverage, which is paid separately.

How do you file a claim?

There are a few steps you can take to ensure you get fairly compensated. If you have been in an accident, start the process at the scene of the accident.

First, you will need to call the police. Then, make sure to document the damages to any vehicles and property. Take photos and videos of the damages, as well as the scene of the accident itself. Pay attention to the directions in which the cars were traveling, traffic lights nearby, and other details that might be relevant.

Property Damage due to a car accident

Collect critical information such as other drivers’ contact details, insurance information, policy and plate numbers, and contact details of witnesses who might have seen or been nearby the scene of the accident. Make a list of personal property damaged in the accident, and ask the police officer for a copy of the report.

You will also need to notify your insurance company and the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Most importantly, consult a property damage claim lawyer for legal advice. Remember, the claims adjusters will do everything in their power to get you to make statements that would not necessarily be to your benefit.

Contact us for a free consultation. Having represented more than 3,000 clients, attorney Dan Zohar possesses the experience and skills to guide you and help you maneuver through these difficult times.

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