Auto Insurance Claims/hit a deer

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Expert: - 12/13/2007


Question
Hi! I was driving and a deer ran in front of my car and i hi it. My car got damaged, about $5000 worth. If i claim it to my insurance are my rates going o go up?

Answer
Hi Valerie,

Poor deer--poor Valerie, as that was really scary I will bet.  Anyway, you need to make the claim ASAP.  Even if your rates went up, that kind of damage must be compensated, less your deductible.

But my experience is that your rates will not go up inasmuch as this will not qualify as an "at-fault" accident.  For verification on this, you can check with your state insurance commissioner http://www.settlementcentral.com/links.php  

Most insurance commissioners have set standards by which companies can increase your rates.  And it starts with the accident being classified as "at-fault".  In other words, you have to be at fault before they can raise your rates.

Since your accident was unavoidable, and since you were at all times exercising due care and caution (get the hint--use these words), you were NOT at fault.  Hence, no increase in rates.

Best wishes,

Dr. Settlement, J.D. (Juris Doctor)
www.settlementcentral.com

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27 years of front line plaintiff`s trial lawyer experience in PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIMS. Along with other attorneys and insurance adjusters, we have created a website to help injured people settle their own personal injury claims. With the help from feedback from hundreds of satisfied members, www.settlementcentral.com has become THE AUTHORITY for Internet personal injury insurance claim settlements. I am humbled and honored if people can benefit from my experience and current volunteer work in helping injured people. I hope I can explain things in a manner that is useful for the questioner. If not, do not hesitate to e-mail me and I will take a second shot at it! Best Wishes for your physical and financial recovery.

Experience



Life Experience: 27 years of front line plaintiff's trial lawyer experience

Organizations:
American Trial Lawyers Association
Washington State Trial Lawyers Association

Publications: (Click on Title to Read)
Statute of Limitations
Vehicle Accident
Accident--Adjuster
Demand Letters
Policy Limits

Education/Credentials: J.D. (Juris Doctor) 1977

Awards and Honors: I am humbled and honored everytime I am selected to help injured people. And when people give feedback that they have benefited from my experience and current volunteer efforts, then that is a double honor and award for me.
 

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