Who Pays for My Car Repairs After a Car Accident in
Florida?
After a car accident, one of the most pressing concerns is
determining who will cover the cost of repairing your
vehicle. In Florida, this depends on factors like who was
at fault, the type of insurance coverage both drivers
have, and how quickly you want your car repaired.
If the Other Driver is At Fault
When another driver is responsible for the accident, their
property damage liability coverage (which is required in
Florida) should pay for your vehicle repairs. However,
fault must be established, either through the other
driver's admission or through a police report or insurance
investigation. Once fault is determined, you can file a
claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance. The insurance
adjuster will assess the damages, and if the claim is
approved, their insurance will cover the cost of repairs.
Using Your Own Insurance for Faster Repairs
Even if the other driver is at fault, waiting for their
insurance company to process the claim may take time. To
expedite repairs, you can file a claim through your own
insurance if you have collision coverage. In this case,
your insurance will cover the repair costs, minus your
deductible. Later, your insurance company may seek
reimbursement from the at-fault driver's insurer through a
process called subrogation, which may result in the
recovery of your deductible.
No-Fault States and Property Damage
While Florida is a no-fault state for medical expenses,
this rule does not apply to vehicle repairs. You will
still need to rely on the at-fault driver’s property
damage liability coverage or your own collision coverage
to handle repair costs.
If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you
may need to use your own uninsured/underinsured motorist
coverage. This optional coverage steps in to cover the
costs that the other driver’s insurance would have paid if
they were properly insured.
Weighing Your Options
While it might seem easier to file through the at-fault
driver’s insurance, using your own insurance may speed up
repairs. Many policies also offer benefits like rental car
coverage while your vehicle is being repaired.
Get the Best Approach for Your Vehicle Repairs with
Professional Car Accident Attorneys
The decision to go through the other driver’s insurance or
your own depends on factors such as fault, how quickly you
need repairs, and the type of coverage you carry. It’s
often wise to consult with a car accident attorney to
ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the
compensation you deserve.
Contact us for a free
evaluation.