Your auto insurance coverage depends on the type of policy you bought. There are three types of coverage: collision, liability and medical. Collision insurance pays for accident damage to your car, liability covers injuries to others, and medical coverage pays for your injuries in an accident. Most states require you to have a minimum amount of coverage, and many only require liability insurance.
Differences Between “At Fault” and “No Fault”
Every state’s rules on accident responsibility are different. In no fault states, it makes no difference who caused the auto accident; each person’s insurer pays for that person’s damages. In at fault states, the person responsible for the accident (and their insurer) pay for damages to both parties.
Injuries by Underinsured/Uninsured Drivers
There’s always the chance that you may be in an accident with someone who either doesn’t have enough insurance, or has none at all. If you are hit by an under- or uninsured driver, there are two ways you can get compensation:
- Under/uninsured motorist coverage-;Most companies offer this type of coverage. It pays your damages if the at-fault party doesn’t have sufficient insurance.
- No fault-;In no-fault states, your insurer pays your damages even if the other driver has no insurance. However, if your damages are in excess of your coverage limit, you cannot make an additional recovery.
When Insurers Deny Claims
There are some cases where your claim can be denied, even if you weren’t responsible for the accident. If you don’t follow the claims procedure or miss the reporting deadline, your insurer may deny coverage. Also, if you fail to keep your car in the location specified in your policy or make misleading statements when buying coverage, your insurer may refuse to pay your claim.
Total Losses
If it will cost more to repair your car than it’s worth, it’s considered a total loss. You’ll be paid your car’s current value, and the vehicle will be sold to a salvage yard. Insurers don’t have to pay you enough to buy a new vehicle; they only have to give fair market value.
Hiring an Attorney
Insurers are in the business to make a profit, and they sometimes wrongly deny claims. If you are unfairly denied coverage, you may have to sue your insurance company, or the other driver. If you Find an Accident Attorney In Las Vegas you can simplify the process and deal with your insurer while complying with state law.