Property Damage Claims

This is for a claim you are presenting against the at fault party’s insurance company for your property damage from an accident. This is covered under the Liability – Property Damage section of their policy. Their liability coverage does have limits and will only pay to that amount. Remember, the minimum limit for liability on property damage is $15,000. This limit applies to all vehicles involved and includes rental costs, towing, storage and any personal damaged property. The stated limit is per accident and not per vehicle. (See Liability – Property Damage)

The insurance company will assign a Claims Adjuster to your claim and assign a Appraiser to inspect the damages. After they have completed their coverage and liability investigation, they will determine liability and work towards the payment of your claim. (See Claims Adjuster – Appraiser – Determining Liability)

You are entitled to a rental vehicle – loss of use and follows the same parameters and guidelines as stated in the rental car section. (See Rental Cars)

The repair shop you choose is your choice and you should move your vehicle there ASAP. Remember, this is your responsibility. The repair process follows the same as parameters and guidelines as stated in the body shops & repair section. (See Body Shops & Repair)

If your vehicle was a total loss and their liability limit was less than the value of your vehicle, you could file a underinsured motorist claim for the difference. You could also file a collision claim, less your deductible and allow your insurance company to subrogate your loss. (See Total Losses - Uninsured/Under-insured motorists – Collision Claims – Subrogation)

If it were determined by their insurance company that you had a percentage of fault (less than 51%) for the accident, they will deduct that percentage from your repair cost or total loss settlement. If you were considered 51% or more, you are the at fault party and not entitled to collect for any damages. If your claim has been denied it must be put in writing stating the reasons. (See Determining Liability)

You have two years to settle your property damage or you will have to file suit to protect the statute.