Who Pays for Car Damage in a No-Fault State?

by: 
 | January 8, 2025
Who pays for car damage in a no-fault state

Were you in a car accident in Utah, and are you now wondering who pays for the damage?

It's a common question, especially because Utah operates as a no-fault state for car accidents. This means that your PIP insurance will probably pay for your medical expenses and some lost wages from an automobile accident without regard to fault. But what about damage to your car? In no-fault accidents, determining who is responsible for vehicle repairs can get a bit confusing.

That's where the experienced legal team at BAM Personal Injury Lawyers, your Idaho Personal Injury Lawyer, can help. We understand the complexities of no-fault insurance claims and can guide you through the process. Let's look at how property damage claims work in Utah.

What Is a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?

In a no-fault state, drivers involved in car accidents generally rely on their insurance coverage to pay for medical expenses and, in many cases, vehicle damage. This differs from "fault" states, where the at-fault driver's insurance is usually responsible for covering the costs. If you've been in a car crash and have bodily injury, your personal injury protection insurance should cover your medical costs.

The idea behind no-fault systems is to speed up the insurance claims process and avoid lengthy legal battles over who is to blame. However, it also means you might be unable to seek compensation from the other driver, even if the accident occurred due to their negligence. This is because, in most no-fault states, your no-fault insurance policy provides benefits regardless of who was at fault.

Utah Is a No-Fault State for Car Accidents

Utah is one of several states that follow a no-fault system for car accidents. Your insurance will probably pay for your medical bills and car repairs after an accident.

Keep in mind that this doesn't mean fault is never considered. In cases of serious injury (such as a brain injury) or significant damage, you may still be able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Utah

To drive legally in Utah, you must have certain minimum insurance coverage. This includes:

These requirements are set by Utah law, specifically Utah Code Ann. § 31A-22-301. Make sure you have at least the minimum coverage you need to avoid penalties and protect yourself in case of an accident.

What No-Fault Coverage Includes and Excludes

Your no-fault insurance, specifically your PIP coverage, typically helps pay for:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Funeral expenses
  • Rehabilitation costs

It usually doesn't cover:

  • Pain and suffering (except in cases of major injury, like a spinal cord injury)
  • Damage to your vehicle (this is where PDL or collision coverage comes in)

Understanding what your insurance covers is crucial. Reviewing your policy or talking to your insurance agent to clarify any questions you might have is a good idea.

Differences Between PIP and Property Damage Liability Insurance

It's important to understand the distinction between PIP and PDL:

  • PIP is for your medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages. It's there to help you recover, regardless of who caused the accident.
  • PDL is for damage you cause to someone else's property. If you hit another car, your PDL helps pay for their repairs.

Both are essential parts of your auto insurance policy in Utah.

How Property Damage Claims Work in a No-Fault State

How property damage claims work in a no-fault state

So, how does the no-fault system affect how you handle property damage claims? Let's look at a few common scenarios:

  • Filing a claim with your insurance
  • When you might pursue compensation from the other driver
  • Limits of no-fault insurance for property damage

Understanding these situations will help you know what to expect after an accident.

Filing a Claim With Your Insurance

In most Utah car accidents, you will initially file a claim with your own insurance company to get your car fixed. This is true even if the other driver was clearly at fault. Then, your insurance takes care of the damage and fixes your car.

Remember to get photos of the damage and keep any estimates for repairs. This will help get claims smoothly.

When to Pursue Compensation From the Other Driver

While Utah operates as a no-fault state, there are times when we can help you pursue compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance. These situations include:

  • Clear and documented negligence by the other driver.
  • Damages that exceed your insurance coverage limits.
  • Serious injuries that meet Utah's legal threshold for filing a lawsuit.

In these situations, we’ll help you through the legal process, advocate on your behalf, and work to secure a just compensation.

Limits of No-Fault Insurance for Property Damage

You must understand that your insurance policy limits how much it will pay for property damage. If the repair costs exceed your coverage, you might have to pay the difference out of pocket or pursue compensation from the at-fault driver.

Also, remember that no-fault doesn't prevent the other driver's insurance company from pursuing a claim against you if you were at fault. This is where having adequate liability coverage is vital.

Exceptions to No-Fault Rules

While Utah's no-fault system aims to simplify the claims process, there are exceptions to the rules. These exceptions allow for lawsuits and claims against the at-fault driver under certain circumstances.

These exceptions are important because they affect the extent to which you can be awarded the full damages incurred.

Thresholds for Filing Lawsuits in Utah

Utah law establishes a "serious injury threshold" whereby you may exit the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver. This threshold is met if your injuries:

  • Result in death
  • Cause permanent disfigurement
  • Usually leads to substantial, irreversible impairment of a bodily function
  • Lead to permanent and substantial impairment of a body part

This threshold is defined in Utah Code Ann. § 31A-22-309. If your injuries fit this definition, you can sue for damages such as pain and suffering that are usually not covered under no-fault.

Severe Damage Cases Where the At-Fault Driver Pays

In some situations, the damage from auto accidents can be so severe that it exceeds the typical no-fault benefits. When the other driver's negligence is particularly reckless, their insurance may be primarily responsible for covering the damages, even in a no-fault state.

These personal injury cases often involve significant injuries, emotional distress, extensive vehicle damage, or even fatalities. As one of the top personal injury law firms, we know how negligence impacts liability and will ensure the driver responsible is held accountable. We’ll review the police report, examine the other driver’s record, and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical attention, repairs, and more.

Steps to File a Property Damage Claim

Steps to file a property damage claim

If you're involved in a car accident in Utah, here's a step-by-step guide to filing a property damage claim:

  1. Document the damage: Photograph the damage to your car and the scene of the accident.
  2. Contact your insurance company: Report the accident and file a claim.
  3. Provide necessary information: This may include your insurance policy number, the police report, and contact information for any witnesses.
  4. Get your car repaired: Your insurance company should provide a list of repair shops.
  5. Consider contacting the other driver's insurance: If the other driver was at fault and you believe their negligence caused considerable damage, you may also want to contact their insurance company.

By taking these steps, you will help guarantee the quick processing of your claim.

Challenges in No-Fault Property Damage Claims

Even with the no-fault system, property damage claims can present challenges. Some common ones include:

  • Dealing with your own insurance company: While your insurance company is there to help, they are also a business. They could attempt to give you less money than you deserve or nothing at all.
  • Proving the extent of the damage: You'll need to provide clear evidence of the damage to your vehicle to support your claim. This may involve getting multiple repair estimates and documenting the damage thoroughly.
  • Navigating fault determination: Even in a no-fault state, fault can still be a factor in determining who pays for what. If you're partly at fault, your compensation may be reduced.

It is rather irritating, particularly when dealing with the stress of a car accident.

How a Utah Car Accident Lawyer Can Overcome These Challenges

With an experienced car accident lawyer on your team, you stand to fare much better in your claim. Here’s how we can assist:

  • Negotiate with insurance companies: We know how to work with insurance adjusters and fight for a fair settlement on your behalf.
  • Gather evidence to support your claim: From police reports and witness statements to medical records, we collect everything needed to strengthen your claim.
  • Advise on legal options: If your damages exceed coverage or your injuries are serious, we’ll walk you through claiming compensation from the at-fault driver.

Our expertise can make all the difference in your case.

Contact Our Idaho Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

Contact our Idaho car accident lawyer for a free consultation

We have experience dealing with car accident cases, even in no-fault states. Our previous case results and client testimonials serve as a testament to our experience. Our team will help you understand your rights and options and fight for compensation. Schedule your free consultation with us today.

If you've been in a car accident in Utah or Idaho, don't hesitate to contact BAM Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.

BAM Personal Injury Lawyers - St. George, UT Office BAM Personal Injury Lawyers - Murray, UT Office BAM Personal Injury Lawyers - Meridian, ID Office
KIGAN Martineau
PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

Kigan Martineau, a seasoned Partner at BAM Injury Law, is a champion for those injured in vehicular mishaps, including car, eScooter, and bicycle accidents. His legal journey is marked by notable victories against major trucking companies like Matheson, UPS, and Swift Transportation, where his strategic litigation has resulted in significant client settlements. 

Notably, Kigan secured the highest settlement in Southern Utah, a record-setting figure that underscores his prowess in the courtroom. His deep-rooted commitment to his clients and his skill in personal injury law have helped recover over $100 million in resolutions, affirming his position as a leader in Southern Utah’s legal landscape.
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