Insurance Not Covering Full Repair Costs, Both Parties Found Not Liable
I was involved in an accident with a semi-truck that was completely in the left lane while attempting to turn into a business on the right side of the road. I was in the right lane passing them and didn’t realize they were turning until it was too late.
As expected, both parties have been ruled not liable. However, my insurance isn’t covering the full cost of repairs, leaving me with a significant out-of-pocket expense. The difference amounts to about $25,000. Are there any options available to me besides covering this cost myself, or potentially seeking reimbursement through arbitration if the other party is found at fault later? I’m located in Arkansas for context.
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; dealing with insurance and accidents can be very frustrating. Since both parties have been ruled not liable and your insurance isn’t covering the full repair costs, you do have a few options to consider:
Review Your Policy: First, closely examine your insurance policy to understand the coverage you have. There could be specific provisions that apply to your situation, including underinsured motorist coverage or collision coverage that might help cover additional costs.
Negotiate with Your Insurance: Sometimes, insurance companies are willing to negotiate. Provide them with documentation of the repair costs and any other evidence that supports your claim. If you can highlight that the damage is significant and warrants a reconsideration, it might help.
Consider Filing a Claim Against the Other Party: Although both parties are currently ruled not liable, if you believe the accident was primarily the fault of the semi-truck driver, consider filing a claim against their insurance. Keep in mind that the success of this option depends on Arkansas’s liability laws and the details of your case.
Seek Legal Advice: Consulting with a personal injury attorney who has experience with car accidents and insurance claims in Arkansas could provide valuable insights and guidance. They can evaluate your specific situation and may suggest next steps or even represent you in negotiations or arbitration.
File a Complaint with the Insurance Commission: If you believe your insurance company is not handling your claim properly or fairly, you can file a complaint with the Arkansas Insurance Department. They can provide assistance and may facilitate a resolution.
Small Claims Court: If negotiations don’t bring results and you want to pursue the matter further, consider taking the dispute to small claims court, where you can present your case on your own.
Explore Payment Plans or Financing for Repairs: If you can’t wait for the insurance situation to resolve and need your vehicle repaired, look into financing options or payment plans offered by repair shops.
It’s essential to weigh your options carefully and assess the costs associated with each, especially legal representation, to determine the best course of action for your circumstances. Good luck!