In California, when you’re involved in an auto accident that results in property damage, you can file a property damage claim to recover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle or any other damaged property. California is a “fault” state, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is typically responsible for covering property damage. If the at-fault driver is insured, you can file a claim with their insurance company, but if they are uninsured or underinsured, you may need to rely on your own insurance, specifically your collision coverage, or uninsured motorist property damage coverage. If the at-fault driver cannot be identified (such as in a hit-and-run), you can also use your uninsured motorist coverage, if you have it.
To file a property damage claim, you’ll need to gather all necessary evidence from the accident, such as photos of the damage, police reports, and witness statements, if applicable. Once the claim is filed with the insurance company, they will typically send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the payout amount. If there are disputes over the value of the damage or if the insurance company denies the claim, you have the option of negotiating with the insurer or pursuing legal action in small claims court. Additionally, California law requires drivers to carry a minimum level of auto insurance, so understanding your policy’s coverage and limits is crucial in ensuring you are adequately protected in the event of an accident.
