Can My Car Insurance Company Protect Me From Lawsuits?

If you have never been in an accident before, you may be fearful that should you be in one, you might be sued. After all, we’re a sue-happy generation, with people suing over the tiniest scrape on their car.

You’ve got car insurance, right? So does your car insurance company keep you from being sued if you cause a car accident?

Not entirely, though your car insurance does help you from having to pay out of pocket for legal expenses in most cases. The reason you have liability, comprehensive and collision coverage is to ensure that if you cause a wreck, your insurance company will pay for the other driver’s damages and expenses. This should leave no room for him to want more, but it does happen.

If you are sued, your insurance company will likely handle the brunt of the work and make efforts to settle on amount to pay the victim if, for example, he is suing for pain and suffering. Your insurance company is far better prepared to show up in court and handle this type of situation than you are, and you shouldn’t have to hire a lawyer if your insurance company is representing you.

If you have questions about how your insurance company would interact on your behalf should you be sued, contact your insurance agent or call your customer service line. They can look up your account and see what your coverage entitles you to when it comes to legal settlements and lawsuits.

Your safest bet is to drive safely and go the speed limit. This will greatly reduce your risk of causing or being involved in an accident, and therefore reduces your chance of being sued! If you are sued, contact your insurance company immediately and ask what the next steps you take should be.