Auto Insurance Lingo

According to Forbes, the average driver will file an insurance claim for collision about every 17 years. This isn’t counting claims filed for those curbside scrapes or parking lot car door crashes. And while we consider ourselves experts in insurance, we understand that this process may be confusing for others. With so many different insurance specific terms and verbiage, we thought it might be helpful to define some of that language here on the blog! This month we’re dishing some important auto insurance lingo.

CLAIMANT – This is someone who files a claim for an accident. 1st party claimants are filing a claim against his or her own insurance policy. 3rd party claimants usually file against the at-fault person’s insurance policy. 

ADJUSTER – Adjusters are employed by the insurance company and settle claims after investigating and determining liability. These same adjusters also then make payments to claimants based on their findings.

DEDUCTIBLE – The amount that the insured must pay out of pocket for covered losses. 

TOTALED – If your car is totaled, the cost of repairs exceeds your vehicle’s value. 

ACTUAL CASH VALUE – This is the fair market value of an item at the time it was stolen, damaged or destroyed. This can be calculated by estimating the value of the property, then subtracting the amount the property has decreased in value since the time it was purchased. This depreciation value will take into account the age, conditions and wear/tear of the property.

CLAIM – This is your formal request to an insurance company for payment under your policy terms. You will be given a claim number, keep this number safe and handy for reference. Adjusters will refer to your claim number often.

Auto accidents are no fun. We hope this condensed list of insurance definitions help you out when the time comes. Here at KW Auto Body we understand the confusion and disruption that a collision can bring to your life. We strive to deliver exceptional service, impeccable repairs and personal support to each customer who walks through our doors. The proof is in the smiles of the satisfied people we have the privilege of serving.