Why do I have to pay my deductible if the accident wasn t my fault?
Asked by: Mrs. Abbey Hagenes | Last update: September 14, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (16 votes)
What happens when a car accident wasn't your fault?
The first step is to get the other party's car insurance information and then report the accident. You should call 911 or the police to respond to the scene. You must also report the accident to both your own insurer and theirs. Generally, this will start the claims process with the at-fault party's insurer.
Can you get your deductible waived?
In most situations, for coverages with a deductible, a deductible will apply - but there are some circumstances in which the deductible may be waived. For example, if you have comprehensive coverage and make a claim to repair windshield glass damage, then your deductible may be waived.
Do I have to pay my deductible if the accident wasn't my fault state farm?
Your deductible is due to the repair shop once repairs are completed. If the other party is found to be at fault for the accident, we'll begin the deductible recovery process to reimburse you for the amount you paid for your loss.
Do you have to pay your deductible if you're not at fault AAA?
In most markets, when you're not at fault for an accident, we can waive the deductible if we can identify the other party, that they're at fault, and their insurance carrier confirms they have valid liability coverage for the accident.
Car Insurance Deductible- Why Do I Have To Pay My Deductible If The Accident Wasn't My Fault?
Why do I have to pay deductible when it's not my fault?
Insurance companies collect deductibles every time they settle a claim, so they don't care who was at fault. You would not be at fault if your car was stolen from a secure facility, but you would still pay a deductible if you filed an insurance claim.
How to avoid paying deductible?
- Choose not to file a claim until you have the money.
- Check your policy, as you may not have to pay up front.
- Work out a deal with your mechanic.
- Get a loan.
Do you have to pay your deductible if you're not at fault in the USAA?
After an investigation finds you're not at fault, we'll recover the deductible from the other insurance company for you. If both drivers are found to be at fault, you may have to pay a portion of your deductible.
Is it better to have a $500 deductible or $1000?
Remember that filing small claims may affect how much you have to pay for insurance later. Switching from a $500 deductible to a $1,000 deductible can save as much as 20 percent on the cost of your insurance premium payments.
Does State Farm have accident forgiveness?
While State Farm does not have accident forgiveness, the company does offer other benefits to motorists. A State Farm car insurance review in 2024 drew attention to the company's: Competitive rates. Rideshare insurance options.
Do you have to pay deductible if not your fault?
If your coverage includes a Direct Compensation and Property Damage (DCPD) deductible, you must still pay the DCPD deductible even if you are not at fault.
Do I have to pay deductible if I was not at fault with Allstate?
Will I have to pay my deductible if I'm not at fault? It's possible, but we will do our best to recover the amount paid from the person responsible, including your deductible.
Do I have to pay deductible if I was not at fault progressive?
If a driver hits you, your collision coverage will still cover the damage to your vehicle, but you won't have to pay your deductible. In some states, the driver must also be uninsured for a CDW to apply.
What to do if falsely accused of car accident?
- Remain Calm and Composed. At the accident scene, stay calm and composed. ...
- Document the Scene. ...
- Exchange Information. ...
- Avoid Admitting Fault. ...
- Notify the Police. ...
- Seek Medical Attention. ...
- Notify Your Insurance Company. ...
- Negotiations.
Should I file an insurance claim if I am at fault?
If you damage someone else's vehicle during a significant collision, and you're at fault, you should always file a claim.
Do I have to pay deductible if I was not at fault with Geico?
Let's say your vehicle is damaged due to another driver's negligence. Once GEICO settles your claim, we'll likely seek to recover your deductible, as well as the amount we paid, from the negligent party or that party's insurance company.
Do I get my deductible back if I'm not at fault?
Yes, if you have to pay your deductible and you were not at fault, you may be able to get it back from the at-fault driver's insurance company. This is called subrogation. Your insurance company will pursue the at-fault driver's insurance company to recover the money paid for the damages, including your deductible.
Why do I have to pay my deductible if someone hits me?
Policyholders will generally pay the deductible before comprehensive coverage kicks in. Liability insurance. Liability coverage, which is required in California, doesn't involve deductibles but covers damages the policyholder causes to other vehicles, drivers, or property.
What is too high of a deductible?
In 2023, health insurance plans with deductibles over $1,500 for an individual and $3,000 for a family are considered high-deductible plans.
What happens if you can't pay your car insurance deductible?
If you can't pay your auto or home insurance deductible, you won't be able to file a claim and get your repairs covered.
What to do if you disagree with an auto insurance adjuster?
Dispute the Decision and File a Complaint
Many policies allow you to request arbitration through the insurance company. You'll present evidence to an independent adjuster, who then makes a binding settlement determination. You can also file a complaint with your state department of insurance.
Will insurance pay if deductible is not met?
(For example, if your deductible is $1,000, your plan won't pay anything until you've met your $1,000 deductible for covered health care services subject to the deductible.)
Do I have to pay deductible if I was not at fault in USAA?
You want to use a USAA-preferred shop. You're willing to pay your deductible up front. If an investigation finds you're not at fault, we'll refund it.
Is it illegal to not pay your deductible?
If you do not pay your deductible you are committing a crime. Technically, this is a form of insurance fraud. Most homeowners' insurance policies will have a concealment or fraud section.
Do you have to pay a deductible if someone hits your parked car?
With both collision and uninsured motorist property damage coverage, you may be responsible for paying a deductible before your insurance provider will help pay for the damage. Your coverage will also be subject to your policy limits, which is the maximum amount your insurance will pay for a covered claim.