Getting into a car accident is never a good experience. It can be even more stressful when you realize that the other driver has the same insurance as you do. While you may think that this would simplify the claims process, there are still some things that you need to know.
What is Same Insurance?
Same insurance simply means that both drivers involved in the accident have insurance policies with the same insurance company. This can happen when two people purchase insurance policies from the same provider, such as State Farm or Geico.
What Happens When You Have the Same Insurance?
When you have the same insurance as the other driver, you will both need to file a claim with your insurance company. Your insurance company will then assign an adjuster to handle the claim and investigate the accident.
It is important to note that even though you have the same insurance, each driver’s policy is still considered separate. This means that each driver’s policy limits and coverage will apply to their individual claim.
How Does the Claims Process Work?
Once you and the other driver have reported the accident to your insurance company, an adjuster will be assigned to your case. The adjuster will investigate the accident and determine who was at fault.
If the other driver was at fault, their insurance company will cover the damages to your vehicle and any medical expenses you may have incurred. If you were at fault, your insurance company will cover the damages to the other driver’s vehicle and any medical expenses they may have incurred.
What Happens if Fault is Shared?
In some cases, fault may be shared between the two drivers. This can happen when both drivers were partially responsible for the accident. When fault is shared, each driver’s insurance company will pay for the damages to their own vehicle and any medical expenses they may have incurred.
What if You Disagree with the Insurance Company’s Decision?
If you disagree with the insurance company’s decision on fault or the amount of damages, you have the right to dispute the decision. You can do this by contacting your insurance company and providing additional evidence or information to support your claim.
If you are still not satisfied with the decision, you may want to consider hiring a lawyer to help you with your case.
What Should You Do After an Accident with the Same Insurance?
After an accident with the same insurance, you should follow the same steps as you would in any other accident. This includes:
- Checking for injuries and calling for medical assistance if necessary
- Calling the police and filing a police report
- Gathering information about the other driver, including their name, address, phone number, and insurance information
- Taking photos of the accident scene and any damages to your vehicle
- Reporting the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible
Conclusion
Getting into a car accident with the same insurance as the other driver can be a complicated situation, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the claims process and your rights as a policyholder, you can navigate the situation with confidence and get the compensation you deserve.
