At The Barnes Firm, the expert personal injury lawyers answer lots of questions about insurance and deductibles from individuals involved in car accidents. How deductibles work can be challenging to understand as can how to get the most from big insurance carriers after a crash.
One of the most common questions is, “Who pays for my deductible after a car accident?” The short answer is generally the insurance carrier of the at-fault driver is responsible for most costs including your deductible. But while that is helpful information, it is important to understand that you could be due compensation for other related costs like medical bills, ambulance transportation, and more.
If you have questions about your deductible in relation to a recent car accident, The Barnes Firm is ready to help.
Paying the Car Accident Deductible
When you’ve been in a car accident and you are not at fault, you should be able to get your car repaired without paying your deductible. But, if you file a claim before fault is determined, you may be required to pay to get your car repaired. In nearly all circumstances, if you were not at fault, it is better to wait for the fault determination and then let the at-fault driver pay your deductible.
If you have any questions, you should always contact an experienced car accident lawyer.
Determining Fault in a Car Accident
Determining fault in a car accident often depends on the details from the circumstances involved to the injuries suffered as a result. The drivers’ insurance companies will investigate the accident to determine who is at fault.
During the investigation process, the insurance companies will ask for the police report from the scene and also question you regarding the details of the accident. The determination of fault is crucial in the investigation because California is a fault-based state which means the at-fault driver is not only responsible for financial losses but also compensatory damages in relation to the accident.
In other words, the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier should pay your deductible as well as your damages. If you paid your deductible before fault was determined so you could have your car repaired expediently, your insurance company will see reimbursement for you for the deductible and any repair costs paid. However, to get the maximum compensation you deserve, you should contact a lawyer before paying a deductible.
What if the At-Fault Driver Wasn’t Insured?
If the at-fault driver did not have insurance or had extremely low policy limits and you use Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) to cover your damages, you may be responsible for your deductible before. Contact The Barnes Firm car accident lawyers before you call your insurance company. We will communicate with the at-fault driver’s insurance and handle every other necessary paperwork.
What about Injuries Suffered in the Crash?
The driver deemed at fault in the accident is liable for damages to your property as well as medical bills related to your injuries in the accident. If you were involved in a car accident and the at-fault driver’s insurance company is denying your claims, you need the assistance from The Barnes Firm car accident attorneys. We can help you get your deductible, the needed repairs to your vehicles, and your medical bills paid.
Contact an Expert Car Accident Lawyer at The Barnes Firm
If you have any questions regarding the payment of your deductible or other medical bills after a car accident, call on the well-qualified personal injury attorneys at The Barnes Firm.
The expert attorneys are standing by to guide you, protect your rights, and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call today for help 24/7: (800) 800-0000.
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California Accident Lawyers , Car Accident Deductible , The Barnes Firm