I was rear-ended while traveling in Puerto Rico, and I’m seeking guidance on how this will be handled from an insurance perspective.
So, as the title suggests, the other driver hit me from behind. I gathered their information, took pictures of their driver’s license, and documented the damages on video.
We then went to a local police station, where an officer took a report. The other driver admitted fault, and I received a report number to provide to Enterprise.
Since I opted not to purchase the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), I paid a deductible to Enterprise and submitted a claim to my credit card company. They informed me that they will be a secondary payer to my insurance.
I have a couple of questions:
- If my credit card company is secondary, will they notify my insurers?
- If they do inform my insurers, could this affect my risk profile or rates?
Additionally, I’m experiencing discomfort in my neck and shoulders. I have preexisting conditions and can receive treatment through the VA, but I’m unsure whether I should go that route. I’m concerned that this minor accident may have aggravated my existing issues.
How will the medical side of things work? For instance, will my credit card insurance pursue the other driver’s insurance as usual?
Thank you for your help!
Sorry to hear about your accident; I hope you feel better soon. Here’s a breakdown of your questions:
Will the credit card company inform your insurer?
Since your credit card company’s insurance is considered secondary, they usually won’t directly inform your insurance unless you or the credit card company initiate that communication. However, when you file a claim, they may request details about any other insurance involved. It’s always best to inform your insurer about the situation to avoid any issues.
Will this increase my insurance rates?
If you file a claim with your insurance, there is a chance your rates could increase, especially since the other party admitted fault. However, if you only utilize your credit card’s insurance and don’t involve your own insurance, it’s less likely to affect your rates. Keep in mind, different insurers have different policies, so it’s best to check with your provider.
Medical issues and treating preexisting conditions:
If your neck and shoulder pain worsen, it’s essential to get evaluated by a healthcare professional. While you can go through the VA for treatment for your preexisting conditions, if the accident exacerbates your issues, you might want to consult with a personal injury attorney about how to handle medical expenses related to the accident and whether to seek treatment independently or through the VA.
How will medical claims work with your credit card insurance?
If you decide to file a claim with your credit card insurance, they would typically seek reimbursement from the at-fault party’s insurance. Make sure to keep all documentation related to your medical expenses and treatment, as this will be important for your claim.
Document everything, and consider consulting with a personal injury attorney to help navigate through the claims process and ensure you are adequately compensated for both vehicle damage and medical expenses. Take care!