{"id":5673,"date":"2024-11-07T23:25:51","date_gmt":"2024-11-08T07:25:51","guid":{"rendered":"\/wp-site\/?p=5673"},"modified":"2025-04-02T00:25:00","modified_gmt":"2025-04-02T07:25:00","slug":"not-at-fault-accident","status":"publish","type":"car-insurance","link":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/car-insurance\/not-at-fault-accident\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do After a Car Accident That\u2019s Not Your Fault"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>There are few worse days than one where you\u2019re in a wreck you didn\u2019t cause. If it should happen to you, though, you can make a claim through the at-fault driver\u2019s liability car insurance. In some cases, your insurer may do it on your behalf if. To get the most from your payout, make sure to document the scene using photos, witness statements and video footage, if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But first, here\u2019s the quick play-by-play of what to do immediately after any car accident, whether or not it\u2019s your fault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ensure safety.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Call emergency services.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Document the scene.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exchange information with the other driver(s). Avoid discussing fault or blame at the scene.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seek medical attention \u2014 even if you don\u2019t feel injured.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get a police report.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report the accident to your insurance company.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Later, you may consult with an attorney and liaise with insurance adjusters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"protect-yourself\">Protecting yourself after a not-at-fault accident<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what to do if you\u2019re in an accident another driver caused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Short-term: Document and communicate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Immediately ask for contact information, driver\u2019s license info and auto insurance information from all involved parties. Take photos at the accident scene and call police to assist, if appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re wondering how to prove you are not at fault in a car accident, the simplest answer is evidence. It\u2019s smart to create a digital or physical space to keep all your accident-related documents organized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what to do when you get into a car accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Document as much as possible, including writing your own account of the crash with notes about weather and traffic conditions. Reach out to witnesses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>File the official police report.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inform your own insurer about the crash even though you\u2019re not at fault, including your documentation. They\u2019ll find out anyway, but insurance companies will often act on your behalf should the claim become a lawsuit, so it\u2019s best they hear from you first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Go to the doctor to get checked out, even if you aren\u2019t in pain, within three days. This can be valuable evidence when disputing false claims.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>During this time, stay available. Expect contact from your insurance adjuster for more details about the accident. Also continue to document any losses, injuries, or other impacts from the accident, including pain and suffering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Medium term: Get your car repaired, secure your payout and focus on recovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Assigning fault can take time. Remain patient and continue to cooperate with the insurance company as the adjustor continues their investigation into the accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Within two weeks: <\/strong>Follow up with your insurance company if you haven\u2019t heard back about the status of your claim.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Within one month: <\/strong>Expect updates from your insurance company regarding the resolution of your claim, arbitration or negotiations about a settlement with the at-fault party\u2019s insurer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Within two months: <\/strong>If a settlement has been reached, your insurance company wil issue your payment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This is also a good time to consider your legal options. If you\u2019re facing challenges with your insurance company or the other driver\u2019s insurer \u2014 or if your property damages and injuries are egregious \u2014 get legal advice. Many car accident attorneys offer a free consultation. If your accident case goes to court, a judge or jury may determine the outcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Long term: Looking ahead post-accident<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After your insurance payout, take the opportunity to review your insurance policy and consider any adjustments or updates based on your experience with the claim process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that medical issues can also crop up unexpectedly. See a doctor if you suspect it\u2019s related to the incident. If you encounter ongoing medical expenses or disputes during the claim process, don\u2019t hesitate to seek legal advice to protect your rights and interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long does a not-at-fault accident stay on your record?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Three to five years. In the coming months and years, do continue to monitor your rates and consider switching if your new premium increases significantly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"not-vs-at-fault\">Not-at-fault accidents in no-fault vs. at-fault states<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If your car or other property is damaged, the at-fault driver\u2019s property damage liability coverage pays in any case. States have two main systems for handling medical claims after a car accident: At-fault and no-fault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">No-fault states<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In a <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/no-fault-states\/\">no-fault state<\/a>, your own insurance company covers your medical expenses and lost wages after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. This means you file a claim with your own insurer, not the other driver&#8217;s, paid from <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/personal-injury-protection-insurance\/\" data-type=\"car-insurance\" data-id=\"54371\">personal injury protection<\/a> (PIP) coverage or <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/personal-injury-protection-insurance\/\" data-type=\"car-insurance\" data-id=\"54371\">MedPay<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, you can only recover medical bills and lost wages with PIP or MedPay. To be compensated for pain and suffering, your injuries must meet specific thresholds, and you would need to sue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">At-fault states<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/at-fault-states\/\">at-fault states<\/a>, both insurers investigate the accident to determine fault. This process can be simple or complex, depending on the circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In an at-fault state, the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the medical bills. Negligence laws also come into play (more on this later). If you&#8217;re involved in a no-fault accident in an at-fault state, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver&#8217;s insurance company to recover damages, including pain and suffering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Feature<\/th><th>No-fault state<\/th><th>At-fault state<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Who pays for medical bills?<\/td><td>Your own insurance company.<\/td><td>The at-fault driver&#8217;s insurance company.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Damages recoverable<\/td><td>Limited to economic losses (medical bills, lost wages).<\/td><td>Economic and non-economic losses (pain and suffering, loss of consortium).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Legal process<\/td><td>Simpler claims process.<\/td><td>More complex legal process, potentially involving lawsuits.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-is-fault-determined\">How is fault determined in a car accident?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Fault after an accident is largely determined by your insurer, or the other driver\u2019s insurer. Once you <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/car-insurance-claim\/\">file a claim<\/a>, they will review the information, including police reports and witness statements, determine fault and proceed with the claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Establishing fault after a crash is critical to ensuring that the not-at-fault party is properly compensated. When you\u2019re found not at fault for a crash, you will file a claim according to your state\u2019s laws, and receive a payout for any injuries or damages you sustained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-separator-jerry-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Learn more:<\/strong> <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/at-fault-accident\/\">What is an at-fault accident?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-separator-jerry-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-insurance-works\">How your insurance works after a not-at-fault accident<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if you didn\u2019t cause the accident, it\u2019s in your best interest to report it to your own insurer promptly. Reporting ensures that you get timely help managing the claims process, recovering damages, finding repair shops and maximizing your ultimate payout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Liability insurance, <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/collision-insurance\/\">collision coverage<\/a>, and <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/uninsured-motorist-coverage\/\">uninsured\/underinsured motorist coverage<\/a> may all come into play in your not-at-fault accident claim process. Here\u2019s how insurance coverage works if you\u2019re found not at-fault in an accident:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Liability coverage: <\/strong>You won\u2019t tap into this coverage at all; the at-fault driver\u2019s liability coverage will pay you for damage to your car and your injuries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Collision coverage:<\/strong> The at-fault driver\u2019s property damage (PD) coverage pays first, but minimum PD levels are low enough in some states a minimum coverage policy may not pay for everything. You can choose to file against your own collision policy for the remaining coverage. However, this means paying an out-of-pocket deductible and filing a claim, which can cause premiums to increase down the road.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uninsured Motorist\/Underinsured Motorist (UM\/UIM) coverage:<\/strong> If you have it, you can tap into this coverage if the other driver didn\u2019t have enough liability insurance to pay for your damage and injuries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the circumstances, you may need to consider legal options such as arbitration or hiring an experienced attorney to get the full settlement you deserve from the other person\u2019s insurance company. If that\u2019s the case, your own insurer may help with the costs of representing you or provide other assistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How state laws come into play with not-at-fault accidents<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Negligence laws vary by state. These laws affect how fault is determined \u2014 and fault affects payout and ability to sue, depending on your degree of fault or negligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some states, even 1% fault is enough to eliminate your right to file. For instance, say you were rear-ended but one of your tail-lights was out. One could argue that you were partially at fault for this accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how to determine the best path forward depending on your state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pure comparative negligence: <\/strong>Each party is responsible for damages in proportion to their degree of fault, regardless of how much they contributed. If the other driver caused 60% of the damage, you could get 60% of your damage paid by them \u2014 but they could sue you for 40% of the damage you supposedly caused.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Modified comparative negligence: <\/strong>Damages are only awarded if your fault does not exceed a certain threshold, typically 50% or 51%. If you\u2019re at least 50% guilty, you can\u2019t collect any damages.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pure contributory negligence:<\/strong> You can\u2019t recover any damages if you contributed to your own injury in any way.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So, how do adjusters determine who is at fault? To assign fault, the insurance company will make a final determination based on police reports, witness statements, documentation and other insurance investigations. Remember that there are time limits for filing a lawsuit. Take prompt action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"will-insurance-go-up\">Will my insurance go up if I&#8217;m not at-fault?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, it\u2019s entirely possible for your insurance premiums to go up after an accident even if you weren\u2019t at fault. This is especially true in no-fault states, where premiums are already higher for added liability insurance requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On average, drivers with a history of accidents pay more for car insurance compared to those with a clean record \u2014 but the increased rate can change depending on your provider. Here is a look at how much Jerry customers have been quoted for coverage with various providers after a not-at-fault accident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-show-load-more=\"false\" class=\"group wp-block-jerry-live-table\" data-wp-context=\"{&quot;data&quot;:[{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$139&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;Aspire Advantage&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$205&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;Bluefire&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$208&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=\\&quot;\\\/reviews\\\/car-insurance\\\/anchor-general\\\/\\&quot; title=\\&quot;Anchor General\\&quot;&gt;Anchor General&lt;\\\/a&gt;&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$237&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;First Acceptance&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$239&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=\\&quot;\\\/reviews\\\/car-insurance\\\/safeco\\\/\\&quot; title=\\&quot;Safeco\\&quot;&gt;Safeco&lt;\\\/a&gt;&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$260&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=\\&quot;\\\/reviews\\\/car-insurance\\\/mercury\\\/\\&quot; title=\\&quot;Mercury\\&quot;&gt;Mercury&lt;\\\/a&gt;&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$276&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=\\&quot;\\\/reviews\\\/car-insurance\\\/national-general\\\/\\&quot; title=\\&quot;National General\\&quot;&gt;National General&lt;\\\/a&gt;&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$282&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=\\&quot;\\\/reviews\\\/car-insurance\\\/progressive\\\/\\&quot; title=\\&quot;Progressive\\&quot;&gt;Progressive&lt;\\\/a&gt;&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$286&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;&lt;a href=\\&quot;\\\/reviews\\\/car-insurance\\\/assurance-america\\\/\\&quot; title=\\&quot;Assurance America\\&quot;&gt;Assurance America&lt;\\\/a&gt;&quot;},{&quot;averagePremiumAfterJerry&quot;:&quot;$289&quot;,&quot;carrier&quot;:&quot;Trexis&quot;}],&quot;isExpandable&quot;:false,&quot;isExpanded&quot;:true,&quot;limitForExpanding&quot;:null,&quot;searchText&quot;:null}\" data-wp-interactive=\"jerry\/live-table\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onInit\" data-wp-bind--data-show-load-more=\"state.showLoadMore\">\n  \n  <div class=\"relative max-md:mx-full-bleed block\">\n    <figure class=\"live-table-header wp-block-table sticky top-0 z-[2] !overflow-x-hidden bg-white md:static\">\n      <table>\n            <thead >\n      <tr>\n                  <th class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content\">\n  <div class=\"flex gap-2 items-center justify-start\">\n    Avg Monthly Quote  <\/div>\n<\/th>\n                  <th class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content\">\n  <div class=\"flex gap-2 items-center justify-start\">\n    Insurance Company  <\/div>\n<\/th>\n              <\/tr>\n    <\/thead>\n          <\/table>\n    <\/figure>\n\n    <figure class=\"live-table-body wp-block-table overflow-auto group-data-[show-load-more=true]:pb-4\">\n      <table>\n            <thead class=\"pointer-events-none invisible select-none leading-[0]\">\n      <tr>\n                  <th class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content !h-0 !py-0\">\n  <div class=\"flex gap-2 items-center justify-start\">\n    Avg Monthly Quote  <\/div>\n<\/th>\n                  <th class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content !h-0 !py-0\">\n  <div class=\"flex gap-2 items-center justify-start\">\n    Insurance Company  <\/div>\n<\/th>\n              <\/tr>\n    <\/thead>\n            <tbody>\n          <template data-wp-each=\"state.displayData\">\n            <tr>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\"><\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          <\/template>\n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$139<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$205<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$208<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$237<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$239<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$260<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$276<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$282<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$286<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n            <tr data-wp-each-child>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-wp-text=\"context.item.averagePremiumAfterJerry\">$289<\/td>\n                              <td class=\"wp-block-table__cell-content has-text-align-left\" data-column=\"carrier\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onCellInit\"><\/td>\n                          <\/tr>\n          \n        <\/tbody>\n      <\/table>\n    <\/figure>\n\n      <\/div>\n\n  \n  \n      <div class=\"flex flex-row my-3 gap-2 items-center font-body text-slate-500\">\n      <span class=\"iconify i--refresh text-sm\"><\/span>\n      <span class=\"text-xs\">Last Updated Dec. 9, 2025<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"!mbs-12 !mbe-12 wp-block-jerry-faqs\">\n  <!-- Title -->\n    <h2 class=\"medium-title text-black mb-1.5 pt-12 uppercase\">\n    FAQ  <\/h2>\n  \n  <!-- Accordion -->\n  \n<div class=\"max-w-screen-lg my-6 [&amp;_li:last-child]:border-b-0\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-jerry-accordion\">\n<li class=\"font-circular flex cursor-pointer list-none flex-col items-start gap-1 border-b border-zinc-200 py-6 text-lg text-slate-500 md:flex-row md:gap-5 wp-block-jerry-accordion-item\" data-wp-interactive=\"accordion-item\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onInit\">\n  <!-- Accessory -->\n  \n  <div class=\"flex flex-1 flex-col text-gray-600\">\n    <div class=\"flex flex-row items-start justify-between gap-4\">\n      <!-- Title -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-q align-middle text-black font-medium\">\n        Do not-at-fault accidents affect insurance?      <\/span>\n\n      <!-- Icon -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-i text-black font-medium mr-4 mt-1 shrink-0 align-middle transition iconify i--chevron-down\"><\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- Content -->\n    \n<div class=\"jerry-block-content accordion-a mt-5 hidden\">\n<p>It depends. In general, <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/car-insurance-claim\/\">filing an insurance claim<\/a> for any reason can lead to increased rates \u2014 so even if you aren\u2019t at fault in an accident, you may still notice your insurance rates go up. However, most companies impose surcharges on drivers deemed at fault rather than those not at fault<\/p>\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"font-circular flex cursor-pointer list-none flex-col items-start gap-1 border-b border-zinc-200 py-6 text-lg text-slate-500 md:flex-row md:gap-5 wp-block-jerry-accordion-item\" data-wp-interactive=\"accordion-item\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onInit\">\n  <!-- Accessory -->\n  \n  <div class=\"flex flex-1 flex-col text-gray-600\">\n    <div class=\"flex flex-row items-start justify-between gap-4\">\n      <!-- Title -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-q align-middle text-black font-medium\">\n        Do not-at-fault accidents go on your record?      <\/span>\n\n      <!-- Icon -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-i text-black font-medium mr-4 mt-1 shrink-0 align-middle transition iconify i--chevron-down\"><\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- Content -->\n    \n<div class=\"jerry-block-content accordion-a mt-5 hidden\">\n<p>Every accident you\u2019re in will appear on your record \u2014 regardless of whether you were at fault for the collision or not. To what extent a not-at-fault accident affects your insurance rates ultimately depends on many factors, such as where you live, the insurance company you work with, and the details of the accident.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"font-circular flex cursor-pointer list-none flex-col items-start gap-1 border-b border-zinc-200 py-6 text-lg text-slate-500 md:flex-row md:gap-5 wp-block-jerry-accordion-item\" data-wp-interactive=\"accordion-item\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onInit\">\n  <!-- Accessory -->\n  \n  <div class=\"flex flex-1 flex-col text-gray-600\">\n    <div class=\"flex flex-row items-start justify-between gap-4\">\n      <!-- Title -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-q align-middle text-black font-medium\">\n        How does insurance work in a car accident when it\u2019s not your fault?      <\/span>\n\n      <!-- Icon -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-i text-black font-medium mr-4 mt-1 shrink-0 align-middle transition iconify i--chevron-down\"><\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- Content -->\n    \n<div class=\"jerry-block-content accordion-a mt-5 hidden\">\n<p>Exactly how insurance works after a not-at-fault accident comes down to your state\u2019s insurance laws. In at-fault states, you\u2019ll likely be able to file a claim with the at-fault driver\u2019s insurance company to recover the cost of damages (like car repairs and medical treatments). On the other hand, drivers in no-fault states will have to file a claim with their own insurance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"font-circular flex cursor-pointer list-none flex-col items-start gap-1 border-b border-zinc-200 py-6 text-lg text-slate-500 md:flex-row md:gap-5 wp-block-jerry-accordion-item\" data-wp-interactive=\"accordion-item\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onInit\">\n  <!-- Accessory -->\n  \n  <div class=\"flex flex-1 flex-col text-gray-600\">\n    <div class=\"flex flex-row items-start justify-between gap-4\">\n      <!-- Title -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-q align-middle text-black font-medium\">\n        What is no-fault insurance?      <\/span>\n\n      <!-- Icon -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-i text-black font-medium mr-4 mt-1 shrink-0 align-middle transition iconify i--chevron-down\"><\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- Content -->\n    \n<div class=\"jerry-block-content accordion-a mt-5 hidden\">\n<p>Personal injury protection (PIP), commonly called \u201cno-fault insurance,\u201d is a <a href=\"\/car-insurance\/types-of-car-insurance\/\">type of coverage<\/a> that helps pay for you and your passenger\u2019s medical bills, lost wages and rehabilitation costs following an accident. This type of insurance earned its nickname because it guarantees coverage no matter who caused the injury \u2014 and in no-fault states, PIP is usually required by law.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"font-circular flex cursor-pointer list-none flex-col items-start gap-1 border-b border-zinc-200 py-6 text-lg text-slate-500 md:flex-row md:gap-5 wp-block-jerry-accordion-item\" data-wp-interactive=\"accordion-item\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onInit\">\n  <!-- Accessory -->\n  \n  <div class=\"flex flex-1 flex-col text-gray-600\">\n    <div class=\"flex flex-row items-start justify-between gap-4\">\n      <!-- Title -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-q align-middle text-black font-medium\">\n        How to deal with an at-fault driver\u2019s insurance company?      <\/span>\n\n      <!-- Icon -->\n      <span class=\"accordion-i text-black font-medium mr-4 mt-1 shrink-0 align-middle transition iconify i--chevron-down\"><\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- Content -->\n    \n<div class=\"jerry-block-content accordion-a mt-5 hidden\">\n<p>The process is similar to dealing with your own company: provide details, submit documentation and stay in communication. In general, it\u2019s wiser to first reach out to your own company and then allow them to handle the communications with the other party\u2019s company going forward. A personal injury lawyer can also help you deal with insurance companies and ensure you\u2019re treated appropriately.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n  <!-- Contact link -->\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-jerry-meet-experts\" data-wp-interactive=\"jerry\/meet-experts\" data-wp-context=\"{&quot;modalVisible&quot;:false}\">\n  <div class=\"font-circular text-2xl font-extrabold text-slate-900\">Expert-driven. Built for you.<\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"my-3\">\n    <div class=\"flex justify-between items-center py-3 border-b border-neutral-200 cursor-pointer font-semibold text-gray-900\" data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.toggleModal\">\n  <button class=\"text-left text-base\" type=\"button\">\n    Why you can count on Jerry&#8217;s articles  <\/button>\n\n  <div class=\"transition data-[visible=true]:md:rotate-180 text-xs iconify i--chevron-down text-gray-500\" data-wp-bind--data-visible=\"context.modalVisible\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"modal-backdrop fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-50 overflow-hidden overscroll-contain bg-black\/70 font-body transition-transform delay-100 duration-0 md:relative md:z-auto [&amp;:not([data-visible=true])]:translate-y-full [&amp;:not([data-visible=true])]:bg-black\/0 [&amp;:not([data-visible=true])]:md:hidden\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onModalInit\" data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.hideModal\" data-wp-bind--data-visible=\"context.modalVisible\">\n  <div class=\"modal-view fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 flex max-h-[75%] w-full flex-col rounded-t-3xl bg-white pb-7 pl-7 pt-3.5 transition md:relative md:rounded-none md:pl-0 md:transition-none [&amp;:not([data-visible=true])]:translate-y-full [&amp;:not([data-visible=true])]:md:hidden\" data-wp-bind--data-visible=\"context.modalVisible\">\n    <div class=\"modal-header md:hidden flex justify-between items-center pb-1 mb-1 border-b border-zinc-200\">\n      <div class=\"modal-title text-base font-semibold\">Summary<\/div>\n\n      <div\n        class=\"modal-close-btn wp-block-group w-11 h-11 mr-2.5 content-center text-center\"\n        data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.hideModal\"\n      >\n        <div class=\"iconify i--close text-gray-500 cursor-pointer\"><\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"modal-body pr-7 overflow-y-auto\"><div class=\"wp-block-template-part\"><div class=\"flex flex-row items-center gap-2.5 rounded-lg bg-gray-pink px-4 py-5\">\n  <span class=\"iconify mt-0.5 shrink-0 self-start text-xs text-primary i--shield-check\"><\/span>\n\n  <div>\n    <div class=\"font-body text-xs font-bold text-primary\">Our goal is clear, trustworthy information.<\/div>\n    <div class=\"mt-1 font-body text-xs text-gray-600\">\n      Our content is created, edited and fact checked by a team of licensed insurance agents, automotive pros and\n      experienced journalists who know the industry inside and out. Facts are thoroughly researched, verified and kept\n      current, and our editorial team is separate from our business partners, so our opinions &#038; tips are unbiased. All\n      insights drawn from Jerry\u2019s proprietary, aggregated customer auto insurance quotes data provide unique, real-world\n      guidance.\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"text-base font-semibold text-gray-900\">Our experts<\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"my-8 flex flex-col gap-8 items-center justify-center\">\n          <div\n        class=\"meet-experts-item group relative flex h-auto w-full flex-none flex-col justify-between overflow-hidden rounded-3xl py-9 text-sm shadow-variant-card\"\n        data-expand=\"false\"\n        data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onItemInit\"\n      >\n        <div class=\"grid h-full w-full grid-cols-1 overflow-hidden px-8 md:grid-cols-4\">\n          <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"250\" height=\"250\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Megan-Lee.png\" class=\"size-16 rounded-full md:size-32 col-span-1 md:ml-4\" alt=\"meet-experts-thumbnail\" srcset=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Megan-Lee.png 250w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Megan-Lee-150x150.png 150w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Megan-Lee-56x56.png 56w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Megan-Lee-120x120.png 120w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 346px) 260px, (max-width: 576px) 432px, (max-width: 720px) 540px, (min-width: 720px) 250px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"low\"\/>\n          <div class=\"col-span-3\">\n            <div class=\"my-4 flex-1 content-center font-circular text-lg font-medium text-slate-900 md:mt-0\">\n              Megan Lee            <\/div>\n\n            \n            <div class=\"text-slate-500 mt-2 leading-6\">\n              <p>Megan Lee is an editor, writer, and SEO expert who specializes in insurance, personal finance, travel, and healthcare. She has been published in U.S. News &amp; World Report, USA Today and elsewhere, and has spoken at conferences like that of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Megan has built and directed remote content teams and editorial strategies for several websites, including NerdWallet. When she`s not crafting her next piece of content, Megan adventures around her Midwest home base where she likes to drink cortados, attend theme parties, ride her bike and cook Asian food.<\/p>            <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"absolute hidden group-data-[expand=true]:flex bottom-0 w-full h-24 bg-gradient-to-t from-white from-30% to-transparent to-100% items-end justify-center\">\n          <div\n            class=\"flex cursor-pointer flex-row items-center gap-2 my-4 font-circular text-primary\"\n            data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.onItemExpandClick\"\n          >\n            <span class=\"text-sm\">See more<\/span>\n            <span class=\"iconify i--chevron-down text-xs\"><\/span>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n          <div\n        class=\"meet-experts-item group relative flex h-auto w-full flex-none flex-col justify-between overflow-hidden rounded-3xl py-9 text-sm shadow-variant-card\"\n        data-expand=\"false\"\n        data-wp-init=\"callbacks.onItemInit\"\n      >\n        <div class=\"grid h-full w-full grid-cols-1 overflow-hidden px-8 md:grid-cols-4\">\n          <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"250\" height=\"250\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lacie-Glover.png\" class=\"size-16 rounded-full md:size-32 col-span-1 md:ml-4\" alt=\"meet-experts-thumbnail\" srcset=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lacie-Glover.png 250w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lacie-Glover-150x150.png 150w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lacie-Glover-56x56.png 56w, \/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Lacie-Glover-120x120.png 120w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 346px) 260px, (max-width: 576px) 432px, (max-width: 720px) 540px, (min-width: 720px) 250px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"low\"\/>\n          <div class=\"col-span-3\">\n            <div class=\"my-4 flex-1 content-center font-circular text-lg font-medium text-slate-900 md:mt-0\">\n              Lacie Glover            <\/div>\n\n            \n            <div class=\"text-slate-500 mt-2 leading-6\">\n              <p>Lacie Glover is a Lead Writer and Editor with sixteen years\u2019 experience in the insurance category. Prior to Jerry, she spent more than a decade on NerdWallet\u2019s content team writing, editing and then overseeing the auto insurance category, as well as dabbling in other insurance and automotive topics. Prior to her career in the online personal finance content space, Lacie spent time in the hard sciences, in clinical research and chemistry labs. She has a bachelor\u2019s degree from Colorado State University.<\/p>            <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"absolute hidden group-data-[expand=true]:flex bottom-0 w-full h-24 bg-gradient-to-t from-white from-30% to-transparent to-100% items-end justify-center\">\n          <div\n            class=\"flex cursor-pointer flex-row items-center gap-2 my-4 font-circular text-primary\"\n            data-wp-on-async--click=\"actions.onItemExpandClick\"\n          >\n            <span class=\"text-sm\">See more<\/span>\n            <span class=\"iconify i--chevron-down text-xs\"><\/span>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Not-at-fault victims can claim damages for vehicle repairs, medical bills and lost wages \u2014 but how you claim and who pays out depends on your state.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":56222,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","template":"single-advice","meta":{"jerry_authors":"[{\"id\":\"366\",\"type\":\"main-author\"},{\"id\":\"374\",\"type\":\"editor\"},{\"id\":\"187\",\"type\":\"reviewer\"}]","jerry_author_ids":[366],"jerry_idx_page_label":"","jerry_meta_desc":"Not-at-fault victims can claim damages for vehicle repairs, medical bills and lost wages \u2014 but how you claim and who pays out depends on your state.","jerry_related_posts":"[11291,2457,15072,11572,5161]","jerry_summary":"","inline_featured_image":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"yes","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[92,31,619],"class_list":["post-5673","car-insurance","type-car-insurance","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-car-accidents","tag-car-insurance","tag-resource_car_insurance"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/car-insurance\/5673","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/car-insurance"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/car-insurance"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5673"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/car-insurance\/5673\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":56223,"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/car-insurance\/5673\/revisions\/56223"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/56222"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5673"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5673"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/jerry.ai\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5673"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}