Seeking Advice
I was involved in a motor vehicle accident where I collided with two vehicles at an intersection. I live in a “fault” state, and both drivers told the police officer that I ran a red light. As a result, the officer issued me a citation, which I plan to contest in court. Unfortunately, I presented the officer with an expired proof of insurance card.
Here’s where things get complicated. The following day, I reached out to State Farm, only to find out that my insurance policy had been canceled over six months ago due to non-payment. I felt devastated, especially since I had canceled the credit card that was on automatic payment with them. Unsurprisingly, they denied my claim.
However, I do have insurance through Progressive for a secondary car that I hardly ever drive. This policy includes full liability coverage.
My questions are: Will Progressive cover the costs from the accident even though the truck involved wasn’t on that policy? Will the other insurance companies pursue claims against Progressive? And would Progressive prefer to handle the costs up front rather than engage in litigation?
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; it certainly sounds stressful. Here’s some general information that might help:
Primary vs. Secondary Coverage: Generally, car insurance policies only cover vehicles specifically listed on the policy. Since your truck was not included in your Progressive policy, they may not provide coverage for the accident, even if you have liability coverage for your other vehicle. It’s important to review the specifics of your policy and speak directly with a Progressive representative.
Other Insurance Companies: If Progressive does not cover the costs, then the other drivers’ insurance companies would likely pursue you for damages. Since you were cited for running a red light, it may strengthen their cases against you.
Potential for Litigation: Insurance companies usually prefer to settle claims rather than go through litigation. However, given the circumstances (your canceled State Farm policy and the citation), they may still choose to defend their interests by pursuing legal action if they feel it is necessary.
Contesting the Citation: Contesting the citation may have potential benefits for your case, but it’s essential to have all your facts straight, gather evidence, and possibly consult with an attorney.
Seek Professional Advice: Given the complexities here, it might be valuable to consult with an attorney who specializes in traffic accidents or insurance claims. They can help guide you based on the specifics of your situation.
Make sure to gather all the necessary documents and evidence for your court case and any discussions with insurance. Best of luck!