What to Do When You Hit a Stationary Object

What to Do When You Hit a Stationary Object

Sometimes mistakes happen when you get behind the wheel. It is not hard to back up into a pole. It is easy to turn too soon and damage the bumper on your car on the wall to the garage.

When something occurs, you might have coverage from your car insurance provider. If and how much assistance you get depends on the type of policy you have. Whenever you hit a stationary object, do the right thing. If it is not your property, report it to the police to ensure proper coverage occurs. Then, call your insurer.

Damage to Another Person’s Property

Let’s say you back up into someone’s vehicle. They were not moving. You did damage to their bumper and light. When this occurs, your car’s liability insurance will likely kick in. It will cover the damage to the other vehicle. Usually, this includes almost any type of damage to anyone’s vehicle or other property. It is important to alert the property owner. Then, your insurance company will work directly with that person to provide overage. Never attempt to flee the scene.

Damage to Your Car

Liability insurance does not protect your own vehicle. If you have collision insurance, though, you may have protection. Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle, even if you caused the accident. Any time you collide with anything else, this type of insurance is ideal. However, no state requires drivers to obtain collision insurance. As a result, some people may not have it. If you do not, you may have to pay for your own damage costs out of your pocket.

Your Medical Bills

If you collide into a pole and suffer injuries, you may need help covering them. This is especially true if you do not have health insurance. Some people may actually have coverage on their auto plans for these injuries. This is common for those who have medical payments coverage. It will also cover injuries to other people in the car with you. Keep in mind that if you cause injury to another person, your general liability insurance usually covers those losses.

Having the right type of auto insurance is critical. It can help to minimize risks to your finances when accidents occur. If you are unsure if you have this insurance coverage, call your agent. Be sure you have ample protection. Otherwise, you may have to pay for the damage out of your pocket for your vehicle or the damage you cause to your property. That can get expensive very quickly.