If you’re a new vehicle owner or someone looking to make informed decisions about insurance deductibles, understanding when auto body repairs are covered by insurance is essential. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details to help you make smart choices when it comes to auto body insurance work.
Understanding Insurance Basics
First, let’s clarify some terms. Auto body repairs typically fall under two main categories: collision and comprehensive coverage.
Collision Insurance Coverage
This type of insurance is designed to cover damages to your vehicle resulting from collisions with another car or object. It is especially relevant when you are ruled “at fault” in an accident.
Comprehensive Insurance
Comprehensive coverage, on the other hand, covers a broader range of scenarios, including damages from theft, vandalism, natural disasters, or hitting an animal. Essentially, it protects your vehicle from non-collision-related damages.
Now, let’s address the question: “When are auto body repairs covered by insurance?”
Collision Coverage:
At-Fault Accidents
If you are the at-fault driver in an accident, your collision coverage should come into play. It can help cover the repair costs for your vehicle, subject to your deductible.
No-Fault Accidents
In some states, including California, where DG Collision Center is located, your own collision coverage may still cover damages even if you are not at fault. However, you may be eligible for a deductible reimbursement if the other driver is found at fault and their insurance accepts liability.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
In the unfortunate event of a hit-and-run accident, your collision coverage can step in to cover the repair costs, minus your deductible.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Collision coverage can also be used if your vehicle sustains damage in a single-vehicle accident, such as hitting a tree or a lamp post.
Comprehensive Coverage:
Theft: If your vehicle is stolen, comprehensive coverage typically covers the cost of repairs or the vehicle’s value if it is not recovered.
Vandalism: Damages from acts of vandalism, such as keyed paint or broken windows, are usually covered under comprehensive insurance.
Natural Disasters: Comprehensive coverage protects against damage caused by natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and wildfires.
Animal Collisions: Hitting an animal like a deer or a moose is a common scenario where comprehensive coverage would apply.
Consider Your Deductible
When choosing your insurance deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage, it is essential to find a balance between your premium costs and out-of-pocket expenses when making a claim.
High Deductibles (Lower Insurance Premiums)
Opting for a higher deductible will generally lower your premium costs but increase the amount you need to pay before insurance coverage kicks in. This is a good choice if you’re confident in your driving skills and ability to handle minor repairs.
Low Deductibles (Higher Premiums)
A lower deductible means higher premium costs, but you will have lower out-of-pocket expenses when making a claim. This option is ideal if you prefer peace of mind and don’t want to be burdened with significant repair costs.
Finally, the coverage of auto body repairs by insurance depends on the type of insurance you have, whether it is collision or comprehensive coverage, and the circumstances of the damage. When considering insurance deductibles, think about your financial situation and how much risk you’re comfortable with. At DG Collision Center, we are here to assist you with your auto body repair needs. Whether it’s a collision or comprehensive claim, our experienced team is ready to help you get back on the road. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to ensure your vehicle looks and performs its best.
About DG Collision Center, an Auto Body Shop in Covina, California
If you are involved in a car crash, we would love to help restore your vehicle to perfect condition. DG Collision Center in Covina, California is your one-stop-shop in Covina for auto body repair after car accidents. Our highly trained team includes specialized technicians. We work directly with all insurance companies. This enables our customers to file a claim without even needing to be present. Additionally, if you don’t want to leave your home in Covina right after the accident, you can request an online estimate for auto body repairs or any other auto restorations. We have a smartphone app that allows us to provide estimates without coming to your home or place of business. We pride ourselves in providing excellent service at DG Collision Center in Covina, California.
