Does Insurance Cover Collision Repairs? What You Need to Know
If you’ve been in an accident, one of the first questions you’ll have is whether your auto insurance will cover the repairs. The answer depends on the type of coverage you have, who was at fault, and the details of your policy.
Things to Know When It Comes to Insurance Coverage for Collision Repairs
Understanding how insurance works for collision repair Waterford can help you navigate the process and avoid unexpected costs.
1. Collision vs. Comprehensive Coverage
Not all auto insurance policies cover collision damage. The type of coverage you have determines what repairs are paid for.
- Collision Coverage – Covers damage to your vehicle from an accident, regardless of fault. This includes crashes with another vehicle, hitting an object, or rollovers.
- Comprehensive Coverage – Covers non-collision damage, such as theft, vandalism, fire, hail, or hitting an animal.
If you only have liability insurance, your own vehicle’s repairs won’t be covered unless the accident was the other driver’s fault.
2. Who Was at Fault?
- If You Caused the Accident – You’ll need collision coverage to cover your vehicle’s repairs. If you don’t have it, you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
- If Another Driver Was at Fault – Their liability insurance should cover your repairs. However, you may need to work with their insurer, which can take time.
- If the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured – If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, your repairs will only be covered if you have uninsured motorist property damage coverage or collision coverage.
3. What About Deductibles?
Most insurance policies include a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance covers the rest.
For example, if your repair costs $3,000 and your deductible is $500, you’ll pay $500, and your insurance will cover the remaining $2,500.
Choosing a higher deductible lowers your monthly premium, but it also means paying more if an accident happens.
4. What Repairs Are Covered?
Insurance typically covers repairs needed to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. This includes:
- Body repairs (dents, scratches, panel replacements)
- Frame straightening (if structural damage occurred)
- Paint work to match the original finish
- Mechanical repairs if accident-related (suspension, steering, etc.)
However, insurance may not cover non-essential repairs or upgrades. For example, if your wheels were scratched but still functional, insurance might not pay for a full replacement.
5. Will Insurance Cover OEM or Aftermarket Parts?
Some policies specify whether repairs must use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or if aftermarket parts can be used. Many insurers prefer aftermarket parts because they cost less. If you want OEM parts, check your policy or ask if you can pay the difference.
6. Will Filing a Claim Raise My Rates?
Your insurance rates may increase after filing a claim, especially if you were at fault. Factors that affect rate increases include:
- The severity of the accident
- Your past claim history
- Your insurance provider’s policies
If the accident wasn’t your fault, your rates may not go up—but this varies by insurer.
Conclusion: Things to Know When It Comes to Insurance Coverage for Collision Repairs
Insurance can cover collision repairs, but it depends on your coverage type, who was at fault, and your policy details. If you have collision coverage, your repairs are covered regardless of fault (minus your deductible). If the other driver is responsible, their liability insurance should cover the damage. Understanding your policy can help you avoid surprises and ensure your vehicle is properly repaired.
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