Understanding Insurance Policies in a Car Accident Case

Being involved in a car accident can be a very overwhelming experience. Unfortunately, dealing with an insurance company can add to the stress. Taking the time to understand the different components of car insurance policies can help. Particularly insurance policies in relation to a car accident. Below is a simple breakdown of the different types of insurance coverage offered by most companies.

Types of Car Insurance Policies Coverage

When it comes to car insurance, there is no such thing as “full coverage.” Some people may use “full coverage” to mean the minimum liability coverage required by their state law, plus comprehensive and collision coverage. However, what is ‘full coverage’ can vary from state to state.

Liability Coverage

In an insurance policy, liability coverage includes bodily injury liability and property damage liability. Bodily injury liability coverage pays for bodily injury damages or death resulting from an accident where you are at fault. Property damage liability pays for the damage to someone else’s property resulting from an accident where you are at fault. Particularly their vehicle, mailbox, home, etc.

Medical Coverages

Insurance that includes medical coverages oftentimes splits it into two categories: medical payments coverage and personal injury protection coverage. Under medical payments coverage, the insurance company may pay for medical expenses related to a car accident. This is paid regardless of who is at fault. Under personal injury protection coverage, the insurance company may pay for your medical treatment, lost wages, or other accident-related expenses. This is also paid regardless of who is at fault.

Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage

When comparing insurance policies, uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage are usually grouped together. With uninsured motorist coverage, the insurance company may help cover the cost of your injuries or property damage caused by a driver without insurance. When it comes to underinsured motorist coverage, the insurance company can help cover expenses incurred in an accident where the at-fault driver does not have proper insurance coverage to pay your claim.

Vehicle Coverages

Vehicle coverages typically include collision coverage and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage will help pay for damage to your car when it hits, or is hit by, another vehicle or object. Comprehensive coverage, on the other hand, may pay for damage to your car in “other” instances – like theft, fallen tree limbs, accidents directly involving animals, and more.  

Additional Services and Coverages

Many insurance companies offer other options that can be added to insurance policies. These are services like emergency roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, and breakdown insurance. These are often offered a la carte and are typically not included in a “main” coverage policy – which is why terms like ‘full coverage’ can be misleading.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney Today

After any car accident, you should speak to an attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of this situation. An attorney can offer guidance so you can take the right steps following an automobile accident, especially when dealing with insurance claims and policies. The car accident attorneys B|B Law Group have a wealth of experience when it comes to auto accidents and can answer your questions. Contact the B|B Law Group to schedule a consultation today!