Anything that is damaged in a car wreck is considered property damage. While the damage to your vehicle is the main component of property damage, you should also look to see whether there was any personal property that was damaged in the wreck. This might include a child’s car seat, a phone, a GPS, any clothes that may have been torn, or even CDs stuck in your car. If you can prove the value of these items and demonstrate that they were damaged in the wreck, you are entitled to reimbursement for that damage.
How is a Property Damage Claim Different from a Personal Injury Claim?
In a personal injury case, a property damage claim is separate from any claim that you might have for the injuries that you sustained in a car wreck. This means you can settle and get paid for any damage to your property while we continue treating and working on any injuries.
If your car has sustained substantial damage, you may be entitled to compensation to repair or replace your vehicle. First, your property damage adjuster will want to determine if your vehicle is repairable or if it might be deemed a total loss. Your adjuster will send someone to appraise and give an estimate for your vehicle. Making sure you are well informed on what other vehicles in the same year, make, model, and mileage are selling for on car re-sale sites can help you obtain the best offer.
But, property damage in a car accident does not only refer to damage to the vehicle, it refers to any of your personal belongings that were in the car. If the car accident damaged or destroyed any of these types of property, you may be compensated for these as well. Collect documents that prove the value of your losses, such as purchase receipts.
Who is Responsible for Paying Property Damage?
When another party is negligent and responsible for damages to your vehicle or other personal items, that person and their person’s insurance will be responsible for paying for the damage to your car. Still, even when the accident is not your fault, you should also check your car insurance to see your available coverage, as you may have additional benefits available to you. Sometimes, it may be easier to work with your own car insurance and have them bill the other party. This can be less tricky than dealing with the at-fault driver’s insurance yourself.
It is important to take photos and gather receipts for the damage to any important items, the more evidence the better. This evidence can help you reach a fair settlement on your property damage claim.
Can My Personal Injury Lawyer Help Me with Both Claims?
At Hilley & Solis, we know getting back on the road is an important step in getting your life back on track. Our experienced legal team is willing and qualified to help you close your property damage claim while we work on your injury claim.
For more information on property damage in a motor vehicle accident, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (210) 446-5000 today.
