Expert: Anne - 6/24/2011

Question
Was involved in a car vs deer accident several month ago. Reported to Ins Co and they assigned it for repair. Prior to getting the vehicle repaired, I struck another deer in the same location on the car as the first one. The vehicle was taken to the same shop for appraisal and after the estimate was received, I was advised by the Insurance Company that I would need to pay 2 deductibles when the repair was complete. I am having a hard time understanding this as the repair is only being done once.

Answer
Hello Roger,

It is a policy interpretation problem. Most policies require you to pay a deductible if you have an occurrence. They also define an occurrence as an impact, probably in different dates (you have to look a the language of your policy). This means that each deer hit is subject to one deductible regardless of the amount of damages or the place where the damages occurred (the policy does not state that this is a consideration).

You may be able to withdraw the second claim simply by only seeking coverage for the first hit. The would have to pay for the original damage, but not the aggravation caused by the second accident.

You need to contact a lawyer in you state who will advice you on that.

I hope this helps,

Good Luck
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