Answers to your Pennsylvania auto insurance questions

You've Been in an Accident...You Have Questions and Concerns.
Our Team Has Answers...And We're Here to Help.

"My partners and I often hear the same kinds of questions from people involved in auto accidents. We know that this is a stressful time for you. That’s why my team has prepared this information. Our goal is to help you deal with issues such as damage to your vehicle, obtaining a rental car if necessary, lost wages, and medical bills."

"By representing over 30,000 injured people, my partners and I have amassed the knowledge and experience to help you resolve your concerns. We hope the information that follows is helpful to you in solving the problems related to your accident. If you were injured, we wish you a speedy recovery."

Attorney Edgar Snyder

This guide is not intended to be used as legal advice. Each case is unique and you should contact your auto insurance representative with questions specific to your situation.

Choose questions relating to:

• Auto insurance coverage
• Property damage issues
• Renting a car
• Lost wages and medical bills
• Other frequently asked questions

Auto Insurance Coverage

Q: I’ve been in an accident and I don’t understand my auto insurance coverage. What am I entitled to receive?

A: To help you better understand Pennsylvania’s confusing insurance act, you’ll find in your information packet our Consumer Guide to Pennsylvania’s Auto Insurance Law. In the guide, we try to give you the benefit of our more than 25 years of experience. We recommend that you read this brochure and then refer to your insurance declaration sheet that lists your coverage.

Property Damage Issues

Q: Who pays for my car repairs?

A: There are two ways to receive payment for property damage — through your own insurance company or through the at-fault party’s carrier. The fastest and easiest way to pay the repair bill is through your own insurance company. If you purchased collision coverage on your policy, your insurance company will pay for repairs after you pay the deductible. The deductible may be reimbursed later by the party at-fault.

You also can present the claim to the insurance company of the person at fault for the accident. If you choose this option, you may face significant delays in fixing your vehicle. The at-fault party’s insurance coverage should pay for your repairs, including the deductible. However, state law only requires $5,000 in property damage coverage in a policy, which may not be enough to pay for the repairs to your vehicle. If you decide to go this route, discuss all details with the insurance company as to total reimbursement.

Q: How do I get my car repaired?

A: The insurance company will inspect the damage so that you can make arrangements to fix your car. Most auto insurance companies have a “preferred provider” system for car repair. To help control costs, insurers favor certain body shops or mechanics. You can drop off your car at the body shop your insurer suggests and you won’t have to haggle over price. Or, you can choose your own mechanic and play the negotiating game. While the cost-cutting approach sounds great, be aware that some body shops may be pressured to cut corners. One strategy is to use generic or salvage parts instead of using new parts from your car’s original manufacturer. Review the estimate for the term “LKQ” parts. Translated, that means “like kind and quality” parts, and not the original equipment. Parts may not fit as well, not be as strong, or they may rust prematurely.

Q: What if my car is “totalled”?

A: If a reputable mechanic confirms that your vehicle is beyond repair, research the Blue Book value online at www.kbb.com or through your local library. It is important to keep receipts for any upgrades to your car to negotiate a higher value. You will likely sign the title over to your insurance company in exchange for the negotiated value of your vehicle.

Renting a Car

Q: My car is damaged and I need transportation. Can I rent a car?

A: Check your insurance policy to determine if you have rental car coverage. If so, you can rent a car although you may need to pay the difference between the amount provided under your policy and the actual cost to rent the car. You may be reimbursed later. If the at-fault party accepts responsibility, their insurance may cover a rental vehicle.

Lost Wages and Medical Bills

Q: I am missing a lot of work because of my injuries. What should I do?

A: Lost wages may be available under your auto insurance policy depending on the coverage you elected. Coverage for lost wages is optional in Pennsylvania. In addition, you may apply for employee disability benefits at work if your company covers you for these benefits. You also may have insurance that covers your car loan, mortgage, or other credit arrangements.

Q: How do I pay for my medical bills?

A: Under Pennsylvania law we have what are called, “first-party benefits.” This means that when you are injured in an accident, your auto insurance pays for your medical bills up to the coverage limits you elected. Only after that money runs out do your own health insurance benefits take over. If you don’t have health insurance, you may be eligible for Medicaid and/ or Medicare. Please note: Your health insurance plan and/or government assistance program may demand reimbursement if you collect other money for your injuries.

Q: I was injured as a passenger in a car and my medical bills are piling up. What should I do?

A: Your own auto insurance coverage is always your first line of payment, whether you are injured in your own car, in another person’s car, or even as a pedestrian. Medical benefits coverage under your own auto insurance policy should pay your medical bills up to your policy limits. If you do not own a car and no relative living in your household has auto insurance coverage, you should submit your bills to the auto insurance carrier insuring the vehicle in which you were a passenger. Additional medical bills go to your personal health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid. Bills that remain unpaid by your insurance, the insurance on the vehicle you occupied at the time of the accident, or another source, are the responsibility of the at-fault party’s insurance company. Your medical bills will not be paid, however, until the case is settled.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will my auto insurance rates go up if I contact my insurance company about the accident?

A: If the accident was not your fault, your rates should not increase; however, there are no guarantees.

Q: I was in an accident caused by a friend or family member. I don’t want to sue them. What should I do?

A: Many people are understandably concerned about filing a lawsuit against a friend or relative. However, many cases are settled without filing suit, and in either event, any money you would collect is usually paid by the insurance company. This is true whether you know the person at fault or if they are a total stranger. If you are concerned about increasing their insurance rates, be aware that if your friend or relative is determined to be responsible for the accident, their rates will likely increase regardless of whether or not you file a claim.

Need More Information?

If you have other questions about your insurance coverage, please contact your agent or visit your insurance company’s website.

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