Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 2/16/2010

Question
Driving on a back road drove through what looked like a puddle of water, and was but had black ice underneath. My car hydro-planned and I crashed into a neighbors property. Immediatly called 911, and fire-fighters got me out of the car. Went to the hospital to get checked no bones broken only bruising. I have full coverage since I still make payments on the vehicle car. The police brought the incident report to the hospital. I am looking to get another car and giving this car to my mother. So she has the insurance policy in her name already, but I am the purchaser of the vehicle. I have never been in an accident that was my fault. How does the claims process work, with the insurance not being in my name. My mother told me not to worry cause the car is covered. What will the insurance cover (hospital bills, property damage, vehicle repairs)? And who will the check be wrote out to? The auto body shop has not tore the car apart yet, so I don't know how much damage was done. Money will seperate a family first and want to make sure everything is taking care of properly. The state was TN. A friend suggested I get an attorney so I get what is coming to me, so yes it can be assumed my mother and I aren't the best of friends yet alone close as family.

Answer
Hi Keyambe,

The auto insurance will cover the damage you your car less your deductible. It will also pay for any property damage caused in the accident up to the limit of your policy coverage. As far as medical bills, you would need to discuss that with the insurance adjuster. There are different coverages available in each state or there may not be any coverage at all.

For the damage to your car, any checks issued will be issued to the named insured and or the owner of the car and or the lienholder or in some cases the body shop. Again you would need to discuss that with the adjuster.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh