After a car accident in Baton Rouge, one of the first questions on your mind is probably: “How am I going to pay for these car repairs?” Whether your vehicle was scratched and dented or completely totaled, getting your car back on the road is a top priority, especially if you rely on it for work, daily errands, or getting your kids to school.

In most cases, insurance will cover the cost of repairs. But which insurance company pays, yours or the other driver’s, depends on who was at fault and what type of coverage you carry.

If you’ve been injured, consult a Baton Rouge car accident lawyer before signing anything related to your claim, especially if the insurer pressures you to settle quickly.

Who Pays for the Car Repairs?

If another driver caused the crash, their insurance company is generally responsible for covering the damage to your vehicle. This is part of their property damage liability coverage, which is required by law in Louisiana.

If you were at fault for the accident, your collision coverage (if you have it) will pay for repairs to your own vehicle, minus your deductible. The other driver’s insurance won’t cover your damage if you’re at fault.

But things don’t always move quickly, and while the insurance companies investigate the crash, you may be without transportation. That’s where your own insurance policy can help bridge the gap.

Filing a claim with your own collision coverage, even when the other driver was at fault, may pay faster. Then your insurer can seek reimbursement later from the other driver’s insurer through subrogation.

How Is the Repair Paid For?

Once your claim is accepted, the insurance company may either:

  • Send a check directly to you so you can pay the body shop yourself, or
  • Pay the auto repair shop directly after they receive the invoice

It’s important to clarify which method is being used so you’re not caught in the middle without payment or delayed repairs. If unsure, ask your insurance adjuster or repair shop to explain the process upfront.

Be Cautious About Early Settlement Offers

If your accident also involved personal injuries, be careful not to accept a quick settlement just to get your car fixed faster. This is because insurance companies may try to wrap your property damage claim and injury claim into a single settlement.

You have the right to settle your property damage claim separately from your injury claim, and a Baton Rouge car accident lawyer can help make sure the insurance company doesn’t pressure you into combining the two.

Accepting a combined settlement can prevent you from getting full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering later on. Before accepting a settlement for your vehicle property damage, have your lawyer look it over to make sure that the settlement is only for property damage and that your injury claim remains open.

We understand that not having a working vehicle can put serious pressure on you to say yes to a quick offer. But don’t let that urgency cost you down the line. A totaled car can be replaced, but your health and long-term well-being deserve time and careful negotiation.

What If You Were Injured in the Crash?

If you were injured in the accident, that’s where our team at Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers can step in to help. While we do not take property damage-only claims, we help our injury clients handle the property damage side of their case as part of our full-service representation.

We can help you:

  • Navigate Repairs With Confidence: We’ll guide you through the car repair or replacement process from start to finish.
  • Separate Your Claims: We make sure the insurer doesn’t lump your car damage settlement and injury settlement into one offer.
  • Maximize Your Compensation: Our legal team will fight to get you the full amount you’re owed for your injuries.

Your Next Steps After a Car Crash

If your car is damaged in a wreck, here’s what you should do:

  • File Your Claim: With your own insurer or the at-fault driver’s, depending on the situation. Even if the other driver is at fault, you should still inform your own insurer of the crash as well.
  • Get an Estimate: Choose a reputable body shop to assess the damage.
  • Confirm Payment Method: Ask whether the insurer will pay the shop directly or send a check to you.
  • Keep Claims Separate: Don’t let the insurer bundle your injury claim and property damage claim into one combined settlement.
  • Speak With a Lawyer: If you’ve been injured, a Baton Rouge car accident lawyer can help you protect your rights.

Get Help from a Baton Rouge Car Accident Lawyer

At Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped thousands of injured clients across Louisiana stand up to insurance companies and get the compensation they deserve for their injuries and property damage.

If you were hurt in a crash and your car needs repairs, contact our law firm for a free consultation. We’ll explain your options, help you avoid common mistakes, and make sure you’re not pressured into a lowball settlement.

Let us help you get back on the road and your feet.

Disclaimer: This content has been reviewed by Chad Lederman, Director of Legal Operations at our New Orleans office.