We’ll Waive or Pay your Deductible (But do I have one?)

A lot of people don’t know whether their deductible applies to their insurance claim or not. Since the majority of my customers are from the Clinton Township and surrounding areas ( Macomb, Oakland and Wayne) the center of Michigan’s hard economic times, we’re all looking to be smart about our money and how we spend it.  I explain to my customer’s if and how their deductible affects them and if it will cost them any hard earned cash. They assume that because they have a deductible on their policy it’s going to cost them money out of pocket. They are surprised to find out either they do not have a deductible or are entitled to a reimbursement of their deductible from the other party. Let’s look at at a couple scenarios.  First off, what type of coverage do you have: limited, standard, or broad form collision? While all three cover you in the event of an accident, how your deductible applies to your circumstance is unique. With all three coverage’s, you will be entitled to waiver or reimbursement if the other party is found at fault in the accident. I’ll outline them here briefly. Oh, don’t forget to check out our other page on WAIVING DEDUCTIBLES

Limited Collision:

•If you are more than 50% at fault in the accident your insurance company pays nothing and you are responsible for the repairs to your vehicle.

•If you are less than 50% at fault your insurance company will pay for the repairs less your deductible.*

Standard Collision:

• Your insurance company will pay for the repairs less your deductible no matter who is at fault. You are responsible for your deductible.*

Broad Collision:

• If you are less than 50% at fault, your insurance company will cover the entire repair and “waive” your deductible.

• If you are more than 50% at fault,  your insurance company will pay for the repairs less your deductible.*
For more information on coverage’s please visit:

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/cis_ofis_ip200_25081_7.pdf

*The Michigan Mini Tort Law provides a way to be reimbursed for your deductible. For more information please visit:

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/cis_ofis_ip206_25091_7.pdf

If you’ve been involved in an accident and aren’t sure how the claims process works, please feel free to contact us and we will help you through the process.  We will take the time to explain your options in the event of an accident. Our advice is always free and our staff is always friendly.

About the Author:

Gary Oakie is the owner of The Body Shop located in Clinton Township, Michigan (Macomb County). Gary has over 30 years experience in auto body repair and refinishing. He is also a specialist in Corvette repair.

For more information:

Gary Oakie

Owner