Free DUI Lawyer In California

Reader’s Question:

Since I have never gotten into an accident, I’d like to know if I need to inform my auto insurance company in case I encounter one. Am I obligated by law here in California to report any accident to my auto insurance company?

Aditya

San Francisco, CA

Although car insurance providers demand that they would like to know even the least accident you are involved with, you are not obligated by law in California to tell them about this accident. If it is obvious that the deductible that you agreed to pay is higher than the cost of the repairs on your vehicle, it would be better to pay the expenses by yourself and not report any claim to your car insurance provider. Keep in mind that all of your claims, even so if the damage would be less than your deductible, it will be on your insurance history. However, although the absence of an accident report to your insurance provider will not make you a criminal, majority of auto insurance policies state that the insurance provider has no responsibility to give coverage if you fail to report the accident quickly.

It would be reasonable not to file a claim if the repair expenses are less than your deductible. What they always advise to pick a higher deductible will be applied to this instance. You can keep the money that you save for having cheaper auto insurance premiums or you can even deposit it into a bank account. In case of an auto accident, you are financially ready to repair the damage even if the charge will be a little higher than your deductible.

Reader’s Question:

My daughter is already away at college and I don’t know if I should keep her on my car insurance policy. What should I do about it and what would I do in case I get into an accident here in Lompoc Valley, California?

Cherrie

Lompoc Valley, CA

If your daughter is away for college or if any other member of the household will no longer drive your vehicle for any reason, you don’t have to keep them in your car insurance policy in Lompoc Valley, California. Insurance coverage for young motorists could be too high so do not put them anymore on the policy unless you really have to do so. In any case, you have to inquire about the claim process before you sign the agreement, not if you already got into an accident.

If you are involved in an accident, you have to call the insurance agent as soon you can. Do not leave for later because you could only have as little as 48 hours to file your claim. Maintain a good record of your claim and take note of every detail, especially at the site of the accident. Note names, automobile number, everything anyone says and anything that could help you later on. Do not waste time and go after the insurance provider because they tend to move real slowly so you have to harass them.