Other driver is at fault, same insurance company
I initially began the process of filing a claim with my insurance. When I called to inquire about the deductible and whether I could get it refunded, I found it difficult to get clear information. I wasn’t sure how my rates would be affected if I filed with my own insurance versus the other driver’s.
Eventually, I decided to go through the other driver’s insurance. However, I now have to wait for their adjuster to determine who is responsible.
Given that the outcome would affect my premiums the same way regardless, should I have just used my own insurance from the start? Is it too late to switch back?
I would reach out to them for clarification, but I’m unsure if I’ll get a response. The representative I spoke to couldn’t tell me whether the adjuster typically takes weeks, months, or even longer—though I found that a bit amusing, as I doubt it could really take years due to some legal policy.
I’ve searched extensively online, but I can’t find any relevant information. If it helps, I’m located in New York.
It sounds like you’re in a bit of a frustrating situation. When dealing with insurance claims, especially in accidents where fault is being determined, there are a few important points to consider:
Using Your Insurance vs. The Other Party’s: If you initially started a claim with your own insurance but then switched to the other party’s insurer, it’s not too late to revert back to your own insurance — but it might depend on how far along the claim process is. It’s best to call your insurance company and explain the situation. They may be able to help you switch back, especially if you feel it could be beneficial for you (like influencing your rates).
Premium Impact: Generally, if you file a claim with your own insurance for an accident where you were not at fault, it should not result in a premium increase. However, every insurance company has different policies regarding how they treat claims, so getting direct clarity from your provider on how filing with them versus the other party affects your future rates is crucial.
Deductibles and Reimbursement: If you file with your own insurer, you may have to pay your deductible upfront, but if you win the claim against the other driver, you can potentially be reimbursed. When filing under the other driver’s insurance, you typically wouldn’t pay a deductible, but you do have to wait for their adjuster to make a decision.
Timeline for Adjustments: As for the timeline for how long claims take, it really can vary widely. Most claims are resolved much quicker than months or years, but there are sometimes delays due to investigations, especially if liability is being contested. It would be reasonable to expect some level of engagement from the adjuster in a few weeks, but checking back periodically is a good idea.
Follow-Up: If calling doesn’t yield answers, consider emailing your insurance provider or checking if they have an online portal where you can send messages or obtain updates on your claim. Persistence is key, especially in insurance matters.
It’s definitely worth clarifying your options with your insurance provider as soon as you can. Good luck!