Coverage Basics
When an accident is your fault, the insurance that pays for auto body work is typically the collision coverage portion of your policy. Collision covers damage to your vehicle from a collision, regardless of who was at fault. If you have no collision coverage, you will need to pay for repairs out of pocket.
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Collision vs. Liability
Liability insurance does not cover repairs to your own vehicle; it covers damages you cause to others. Therefore, if you're at fault, liability will pay for the other driver's vehicle and medical costs, but not for your body work.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)
If the at‑fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage, your UM or UIM policy can step in. These policies cover bodily injury and, in many states, property damage to your vehicle caused by an uninsured driver. However, coverage limits vary by state and policy.
Deductibles and Limits
Collision claims require you to pay the deductible specified in your policy. The deductible can be a flat amount or a percentage of the repair cost. The insurer will reimburse the remaining amount up to the policy's coverage limits. If the repair cost exceeds the limit, you must cover the excess.
Subrogation and Reimbursement
After paying your deductible, the insurer may seek reimbursement from the at‑fault driver's insurance through subrogation. If the at‑fault driver's insurer denies the claim, you may need to pursue legal action to recover the deductible.
When Repairs Are Not Covered
Insurance will not cover:
- Pre‑existing damage not related to the accident
- Cosmetic or aftermarket modifications
- Damage from negligence other than the collision (e.g., driving under influence)