Property Damage vs. Injury Claim After a Car Accident
Short answer: After a crash you usually have two separate claims: one for your car and one for your injuries. They should be treated separately. Most personal injury lawyers handle only the injury claim.
Fixing your car after a Fort Worth crash is a separate claim from your injuries. Settling one doesn’t have to settle the other.
| Property damage claim | Injury claim | |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | Car repairs or total loss, rental car | Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering |
| Who usually handles it | You, with the insurer | A personal injury lawyer, if you hire one |
Settling the car doesn't have to settle your injuries
You can settle the property claim without giving up your injury claim, but read any release carefully. Make sure it covers only property damage. When in doubt, have a lawyer look at it first.
Who pays for a rental car?
The at-fault driver's insurer, or your own rental coverage if you have it.
My car is totaled but I still owe on it
The insurer pays the car's actual cash value. Gap coverage pays the rest, if you have it. Back to all insurance guides.
Want a lawyer to look at your case for free?
If you were hurt in a crash that wasn't your fault, in Fort Worth or anywhere else in Texas, you can ask for a free consultation. A participating personal injury law firm will reach out to you promptly. There's no cost to ask and no obligation.