Reader’s Question:

I have been involved in an accident here in Pennsylvania. My car has sustained major damages. Will I be able to file a claim to my insurer to have it repaired or replaced?

Michelle

Pittsburgh, PA

Getting involved in a car mishap is a very big headache. With damages ranging from bodily injuries to wrecked property, you are considered lucky if you get out of it unscathed, both physically and financially.

In Pennsylvania, as in any other state, the auto insurance company may cover for repairs to its policyholder’s car or even have it replaced provided that the said policyholder has collision and comprehensive auto insurance in his/her policy. The amount that the insurer will cover will only be within the limit set on your collision and comprehensive insurance. If your car was declared a total loss following an accident, then your insurer will normally write you a check with the cash value of your car. Having a totaled vehicle can be very frustrating even if you hate your car. This is because auto insurance companies will not pay you the actual value you paid when you bought your car. They will only pay the depreciated value of the vehicle. This is what they call the actual cash value of the vehicle and is typically called the blue book value. If it was declared a total loss and you do not agree with the price determination, you can get damage assessment from a third party. This, however, will cost you extra since you will shoulder any fees for the independent appraisal.

Tags: auto insurance claims, collision insurance coverage, comprehensive insurance coverage