If your car gets seriously damaged in an accident and needs to be repaired or replaced, you may have multiple avenues for receiving compensation. When you get into a car accident you don’t just have the option to sue over injuries and their related costs. You can also sue over property damage. A Monmouth County car accident lawyer can help you sort through your options.
Can My Own Insurance Pay for Property Damage?
If you have the right kind of coverage, it’s possible that your own insurance can pay for the property damage done to your vehicle. Collision coverage is an optional addition to your policy that will pay for repairs to your vehicle, even if the accident was your fault. Uninsured motorist coverage, which is mandatory in NJ, can also help pay for property damage if the other driver involved in your accident ran off before you could get their information.
When Should I Sue Another Driver Over Property Damage?
Should you really have to use your own insurance coverage and end up dealing with the possibility of increased premiums if the accident was someone else’s fault though? Collision coverage often has a deductible too, which means that you can end up paying hundreds of dollars for repairs yourself. If you really believe that the negligence of another driver caused the crash, then you should instead submit a claim to their insurance company.
When another driver is found to be responsible for a car accident, their liability coverage will help the other driver with medical expenses and repair costs for their vehicle. Proving negligence can be tough though, which is why hiring a lawyer is recommended.
What Evidence Can Help in a Case Like This?
It can help to have some evidence when you sue another driver for property damage. Having any of the following can make it easier to build a case:
- Estimates for repairs
- Car value data from a reputable source, if your car has been totaled
- Bills for other related expenses, like car rentals
- Expert testimony from vehicle appraisers
The more information you have about the actual monetary cost you have incurred, the better.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me Fight for Damages?
As we mentioned, proving negligence on your own can be tough. An experienced lawyer from our firm can help you build a more convincing case. They can:
- Gather evidence, like police reports or surveillance footage
- Talk to witnesses and use their testimony to strengthen your case
- Negotiate for fair compensation
- Handle all communications on your behalf
- Defend you from any accusations of fault or wrongdoing
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Property Damage Case
If you have to sue another driver for property damage, we may be able to help. Contact Falcon Law Firm and ask about our free case consultations. We look forward to meeting with you.
