If 2 cars are insured under the same insurance policy, do you have to pay 2 deductibles if both are damaged?

Question

I backed out of my driveway and accidentally hit my daughter's car. I have an SUV and my bumper went over hers causing about $1,000 worth of damage to her car and about $500 damage to mine. My insurance says I have to pay two deductibles. It was the same accident and her car was just sitting there.

Answer 1

Please, dont listen to people who think they know everything and in reality have no idea what they are talking about.

If you listen to the first person who answers advice and ask your insurance for proof in writing of why you are paying both deductibles- they will gladly show it to you. Let me explain why you must pay two (and you will.)

Collision coverage on your policy is to cover your vehicle when you are in an accident and at fault (or not at fault and dont want to go through the other carrier- but thats another story. )

Property damage is the coverage that allows you to reimburse the not at fault party for the damages you are at fault for and it has no deductible.

Now- understand the insurances standpoint- you are clearly at fault for the accident. If they fix yoru daughters car for free (which is a household resident on your policy) - your kinda getting a "buy one get one free special" You are getting one of your vehicles fixed for free (no deductible) when you are at fault. Thats not fair.

And this is why you will pay two deductibles.

Answer 2

I agree with the claims adjuster. However...there are a few companies that provide car insurance that will waive one of the deductibles.

As for the rates going up...that is usually the truth. Some companies allow ONE accident or minor ticket with a total of under $1000 (including your deductible) without raising the rates. However some companies don't raise the rates as much as delete the good driver discounts...either way you basically see an increase.

It is really all dependent on the company you are insured with AND the state laws.

Answer 3

If you are on the same insurance policy, you have to pay 2 deductables because you cannot make a property damage claim against yourself. Otherwise, people would intentionally damage their cars to get insurance companies to pay for new cars or to fix problems.

Answer 4

Admiral Insurance offer a multi-car product. Also Norwich Union (either through a broker or direct) may be able to help. "Homefleet" insurances (as they're sometimes called) are becoming more popular these days and I don't suppose it'll be long before most of the main players in the industry and doing it.

Answer 5

This happen to me and on the car that back up(my wife) into
my daughters car in my driveway my daughter received full payment and my wife had 500 deductible taken out.

Answer 6

You insurance premiums will go up if you file a claim. It is better to pay out of pocket for something small like $1500.

Answer 7

i own a repair shop,,and the answer to that one is yes,,it has happened to me before,,i had to pay two different times,,but most insurance company's will write it all in on one,,they did my second time around,but most company's will work with you on the deductible,,good luck,i hope this help,s.,,have a good and safe x-mas.

Answer 8

It should only count as one since it was the same accident. Your insurance company is trying to get you to pay most of it out of pocket. Make them prove that to you in writing and if they can't (which they won't) contest it. Keep taking your complaint up the ladder until someone approves your claim just to shut you up. With insurance companies, the old saying "squeaky wheel gets the grease" is 100% accurate.

Answer 9

i totally agree with the adjuster.