A friend of mine had a vehicle accident and thank goodness he didn’t suffer that many injuries. Will his insurer here in Los Angeles increase his vehicle insurance rate because of that single accident? If his vehicle is totaled, how will his insurer pay him?

Lina

Los Angeles, CA

You failed to mention whether or not your friend’s accident was his fault because the basis of the increase of his vehicle insurance rate would depend on that. However, should he file a vehicle insurance claim, there’s no universal law that says the vehicle insurance rate would increase right away. But a number of vehicle insurance carriers would keep a file of a collision claim on the policyholder’s insurance history and increase the vehicle insurance rate.

For insurance claims that are chargeable or regarded as at-fault accident, the increase on the vehicle insurance rate would remain for about three years after the policyholder filed the claim. In the event that the accident was completely the fault of the other driver, there is no reason for a vehicle insurance rate to increase. That would be the same thing that insurance agents will tell you – the vehicle insurance rate won’t go up if you are not the one who caused the accident.

In case that his vehicle is totaled, its value would be based on the Kelley Blue Book that gives depreciated value of used as well as new vehicles. He can get in touch with his vehicle insurance company in Los Angeles to determine the value of his vehicle for insurance purposes.

I have been through a lot of traveling lately that required me to rent a car. How would I know if my car insurance policy here in Los Angeles, California includes coverage for a rental vehicle?

Harlan

Los Angeles, CA

Having the knowledge whether or not you have to buy rental vehicle insurance could save you money and provide composure. Non-obligatory insurance can almost double the price of the car rental. So prior to buying the rental vehicle insurance from the rental company, you need to do a little research on your own car insurance policy in Los Angeles, California. You may opt to go over your policy with an independent car insurance agent. He/she can assess your coverage to see if you are protected in a rental vehicle.

You may also find the information through your credit card company. A number of credit card providers offer coverage without extra fee if you use your plastic to pay for the rental. But there could be limitation so make certain that you inquire for the precise explanation on what is covered.

Another option that you have is that you can bring with you the “Declarations Page” to the rental counter. The rental car company representative could ask you some things that this page could provide response. If you are not certain about something, you need to have with you the contact number of your car insurance agent so that you can get in touch with him/her immediately.