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Question
My husband rear ended my vehicle while my son and I were in it. There was minor damage to the vehicles, however I was injured and I feel that I should have my son checked out as well. (He said that he feels fine) I'm wondering how this will affect our policy if I file a claim and how would the claim likely work? Also would I benefit from dropping him from my policy and him getting his own?
This will depend on the coverages on your policy and the laws of your state.
You probably have some type of first party medical coverage like PIP or MPC. If this is the case, your medical bills will be covered under is coverage for anyone in your car. Using these coverages normally cannot be surcharged, but you should ask your claim rep to be sure in your state.
Most policies exclude liability coverage for a vehicle in the same household, unless the law in that state prohibits it. This means you and your son probably can't sue your husband or make a claim for things like pain and suffering or inconvenience. Also, your property damage will probably be covered under Collision with a deductible as opposed to Property Damage Liability coverage that has no deductible. Again, this varies by state. Ask your claim rep to be sure.
Normally you get a multicar dscount so dropping him probably won't make sense, unless his driving record is really bad. This is a question for your agent who can provide an answer tailored to your unique scenario.
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Answers by Expert:
Claims Guy
Expertise
I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.
Experience
I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.
Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators
Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.
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