There are several ways to look at this. Below is a sensible approach to understanding insurance coverage. the two main factors to consider are who is at fault and what you are trying to do.
Other Driver at Fault
I Want to Fix My Car
- Look to the other driver’s liability insurance.
- See also What About My Crumpled Car
- If they have no liability insurance or treat you unfairly, look further for other insurance coverage.
- Look to your own collision coverage. Read the policy. Talk to your company.
- Do you really own your car? If you are financing this car, the bank probably owns it, and you simply make payments. If so, involve the bank or finance company in making decisions. If the insurance company totals your car, understand the consequences of what you are doing if you take a check and settle for less than you owe on the car.
I Want My Medical Bills Paid
- Take care of your doctors. They are more helpful and easier to access when they are getting paid.
- Look to your own coverage. You may have some or all of these coverages. Which one you choose depends on the facts of your case.
- PIP Insurance Coverage
- Med Pay Insurance
- Your Health Insurance
- L&I coverage if this was a job injury
- Look to the Other Drivers Liability Insurance and get them to pay your medical bills.
- If there is no insurance coverage for your medical bills consider paying the bills yourself, asking the doctor to wait, getting help from a social service agency, find a patient assistance program, or consider a medical lien. Your attorney may be able to help with this.
I Want a Fair Settlement
- Look to the other driver’s liability insurance. Know what you’re doing, or consult with an attorney before you talk to these guys.
- If the other driver has insufficient insurance, then look to your UM/UIM policy.
- Think about other liable parties; is someone else liable? Consult with experienced lawyers, because this is what lawyers get paid to do – come up with good ideas in tough situations.
I Was a Passenger
- Passengers are usually in a favorable legal situation. They can look to their driver’s or the other driver’s insurance.
I was a Pedestrian
- We hope you are OK. Vehicle/pedestrian accidents can be painful or worse. Look to the driver’s PIP, your health insurance, L&I coverage, or your PIP.
The Accident Was My Fault
I Want to Fix My Car
- Look to your own collision coverage
- Do you actually own your car? If it is bank-financed, then they have an interest in what you are doing. Get them involved.
- Check out What About My Crumpled Car
I Want My Medical Bills Paid
- Look for your own insurance, such as PIP, Med Pay, Health Insurance, and L&I.
- If none, pay it yourself or get help from a social service agency
I am a Pedestrian
- Being an at-fault pedestrian in an accident is no fun. Insurance coverage may be available from the driver’s PIP, your health insurance, L&I coverage, or other policies. Get a lawyer.
I’m Being Sued
- Contact your liability insurer
- If none, talk to experienced lawyers
Accident Is the Fault of Both Drivers
- This gets complicated
- See Fault – Personal Injury Definitions
- Talk to Seattle car accident lawyers. Get a free consultation.
