Yes, your car insurance can cover a single-car accident in Illinois, but only if you have the right types of coverage. Standard liability insurance, which is required by Illinois law, does not cover your own vehicle’s damage in a solo accident.
However, collision and comprehensive coverage will protect you if your car is damaged in a single-vehicle crash. To ensure you’re fully covered, it’s important to have these additional coverages on your policy.
If you’re unsure about your current coverage, call Insure on the Spot at 7732025060. We can review your policy and help ensure you’re fully protected.
What Is a Single-Car Accident?
A single-car accident is any incident where only one vehicle is involved. This includes scenarios like losing control of your vehicle, running off the road, crashing into a stationary object, or rolling over. While no other drivers are involved, these accidents can still cause significant damage to your vehicle and lead to serious injuries.
Common Causes of Single-Car Accidents:
- Bad weather or road conditions: Slippery roads, rain, snow, or ice can cause you to lose control.
- Sudden obstacles: Avoiding animals or swerving to miss debris can lead to a crash.
- Tire blowouts or mechanical failures: A burst tire or malfunctioning brakes can cause a solo accident.
- Driver error or distraction: Speeding, texting while driving, or drowsy driving can lead to loss of control and accidents.
In Illinois, it’s critical to have the right insurance to cover these types of accidents.
What Is “Single-Car Accident Coverage”?
While “single-car accident coverage” isn’t a specific insurance policy, it refers to the combination of coverages that protect you in the event of a solo crash. This typically includes collision and comprehensive coverage. Here’s how each works:
Collision Coverage:
Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle if you crash into an object, roll over, or hit something stationary. If you hit a guardrail, a tree, or roll your car, this coverage will pay for repairs after you pay your deductible.
Comprehensive Coverage:
Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car from non-collision events like hitting an animal, falling debris, or damage from a natural disaster. If you hit a deer or a tree branch falls on your car, comprehensive coverage will help cover the repairs.
Liability Coverage:
While liability insurance is required by Illinois law, it only covers damages to others, not your own car. If you cause damage to someone else’s property (like a fence or utility pole), liability insurance will cover those costs. However, it doesn’t pay for your own vehicle’s damage in a single-car crash.
Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage:
MedPay is optional in Illinois and can help pay for medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. If you’re injured in a single-car accident, MedPay can cover medical expenses up to your policy’s limit.
To ensure you’re protected in a single-vehicle accident, make sure you have both collision and comprehensive coverage.
Does Insurance Cover a Single-Vehicle Accident if I’m at Fault?
Yes, if you’re at fault in a single-car accident, your insurance can still cover the damages, but only if you have the appropriate coverages. Collision coverage will pay for repairs to your vehicle, even if you caused the accident. MedPay can also help cover your medical expenses if you’re injured.
If you don’t have collision or comprehensive coverage, your insurance will not cover the damage to your car. In that case, you’d be responsible for paying for repairs out of pocket. For example, if you only have liability insurance and crash into a guardrail, your liability will cover the guardrail, but your vehicle’s damage won’t be covered by your insurance.
Am I Always “At Fault” in a Single-Car Accident?
In most cases, yes. Insurance companies typically consider the driver at fault in a single-car accident since no other vehicle is involved. However, there are exceptions where fault could be placed elsewhere:
Possible Exceptions:
- Swerving to avoid another driver or hazard: If you swerved to avoid an accident with another driver or to miss a hazard, and lost control, the other driver might be considered at fault.
- Unavoidable road obstructions: If a road hazard like a pothole or fallen tree caused the crash, the agency responsible for maintaining the road could be at fault.
- Vehicle malfunction or defect: If a mechanical failure (like brake failure) caused the crash, the manufacturer or repair shop could be liable.
- Acts of nature: If a natural event, such as a falling tree or rockslide, caused the crash, you might not be at fault.
It’s important to note that these exceptions are rare and often require clear evidence to prove the other party’s fault.
Will a Single-Car Accident Make My Insurance Rates Go Up?
Yes, a single-car accident where you file a claim is usually considered an at-fault accident, and your rates are likely to increase upon renewal. The severity of the accident and your driving history will impact how much your premiums go up.
Factors Influencing Rate Increases:
- Severity of the accident: Minor accidents may cause smaller increases, while major accidents with high repair costs may result in a larger premium increase.
- Your driving record: First-time accidents might not increase your rates as much, especially if your insurer offers accident forgiveness. However, multiple incidents could lead to a more significant premium hike.
- Circumstances of the accident: If the accident involved reckless behavior (such as speeding or driving under the influence), your rates could increase significantly.
If you’ve had a single-car accident, it’s important to continue practicing safe driving and explore different insurers at your next renewal to potentially lower your rates.
What Should I Do After a Single-Car Accident?
Here are the essential steps to take after a single-car accident:
- Check for injuries: Your safety and that of your passengers should be your top priority. Call 911 if anyone is injured.
- Secure the scene: If it’s safe, move your car out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
- Call the police: In Illinois, you must report accidents involving significant property damage or injuries. A police report is crucial for your insurance claim.
- Document the incident: Take photos of the damage, the scene, and any contributing factors (like road conditions or debris).
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
By handling the situation properly, you can ensure a smoother claims process and make sure your insurance covers the damages.
How Can I Avoid Single-Vehicle Accidents?
Many single-car accidents can be avoided with safe driving practices. Here are some tips:
- Stay alert: Avoid distractions like texting and focus on the road.
- Adjust for weather and road conditions: Slow down in bad weather and be cautious on slippery roads.
- Maintain your vehicle: Regularly check your tires, brakes, and other essential components.
- Don’t drive drowsy or impaired: Always get enough rest and never drive under the influence.
- Be cautious of animals and debris: Watch for wildlife and debris on the road, especially in rural areas.
Safe driving is the best way to reduce the risk of a single-car accident and keep your premiums low.
FAQ: Single-Car Accidents and Insurance
Q: What is a single-car accident?
A: A single-car accident occurs when only one vehicle is involved. This could be crashing into a tree, guardrail, or stationary object, or losing control of your vehicle.
Q: Does car insurance cover single-vehicle accidents?
A: Yes, if you have collision or comprehensive coverage, your car insurance will cover damage to your own vehicle in a single-vehicle accident. Liability insurance only covers damage to others’ property or injuries.
Q: Am I automatically at fault in a single-car accident?
A: In most cases, yes. However, there are exceptions, such as swerving to avoid another driver or a road hazard, where fault may lie elsewhere.
Q: Will a single-car accident raise my insurance rates?
A: Generally, yes. A single-car accident is typically considered at fault, which can lead to an increase in your premium.
Get a Quote Today!
If you’re concerned about your coverage or want to ensure you’re protected in the event of a single-car accident, call Insure on the Spot at 7732025060. Our Illinois-based experts can help you get the right coverage and assist with filing a claim. Don’t wait—get the protection you need today!