What to Do After a No-Fault Accident
Yesterday, while parked at the supermarket in my 2020 Silverado LT Trailboss, a 17-year-old driver made a poor decision by driving into an angled parking spot the wrong way and collided with the passenger side of my truck. The impact pushed my front fender and door in, making it impossible for the door to open completely without hitting the fender. It also caused damage to my passenger front wheel, bending a tie rod. Thankfully, my toddler, who typically sits in the back seat on that side, was not in the vehicle at the time.
The young driver initially left the scene, but a good Samaritan followed them and managed to get them to return. I was informed about the incident and called the police, who gathered security camera footage and witness statements. While the driver wasn’t charged with hit and run due to their return, they did tell the officer that they left because they didn’t know what to do in the first place.
I contacted my insurance company to begin the claims process. They informed me that they will use the police report, along with photos and videos, to pursue a claim against the other driver’s parents’ insurance. However, I was made aware that if their insurance contests the claim, I might need to pay my deductible to get my truck repaired and then my insurance would seek reimbursement.
I have two key questions: If I do end up paying the deductible, will my insurance premiums be affected as if it were an at-fault accident? Additionally, will my truck’s VIN now reflect that it has been in an accident? This is my first truck since new, and I was hoping to maintain its condition both physically and in terms of its history.
I’m sorry to hear about your accident, but it sounds like you’re taking the right steps to handle it. Here are some insights into your questions:
Deductible and Insurance Impact: Yes, you might have to pay your deductible initially to get your truck repaired. However, since this accident is not your fault and you are filing a claim against the other driver’s insurance, your insurance should not classify it as an at-fault claim. Typically, if the other driver is found to be at fault and their insurance covers the damages, it won’t negatively impact your insurance record. Just keep in mind that every insurance company has different policies, so it’s a good idea to clarify with your agent how this particular situation may affect your premiums in the long run.
Accident on VIN: Even if this accident was not your fault, it might still be recorded on your vehicle’s history due to the claim being filed. Insurance companies often document accidents for both liability and underwriting purposes. Although it may not specifically indicate fault, a record could show that your truck has been involved in an accident. If you’re concerned about this affecting your truck’s resale value, consider obtaining a vehicle history report after repairs to see what is recorded.
In the meantime, stay in close contact with your insurance provider and document everything related to the accident, including photos of the damage, repairs, and any communications with the other driver’s insurance. This could help in case there are disputes later on. Good luck, and I hope your truck is back to its pre-accident condition soon!