Which insurance should handle vehicle repairs?

Know Your Vehicle’s Worth Before an Accident

If you drive a luxury, classic, or modified vehicle, it’s crucial to consider how your insurance policy will protect your investment in the event of an accident. High-end cars like Teslas, Jaguars, Escalades, or classic collectibles require specialized parts and repairs, which can present a unique challenge when dealing with insurance companies—especially if the at-fault driver has only the minimum property damage coverage allowed in Maryland ($15,000). That amount won’t even begin to cover the cost of damage or replacement on many vehicles.

Don’t Let Online Insurance Policies Leave You Underinsured

The convenience of buying auto insurance online might come at a cost. Many online insurance platforms prioritize low premiums and might not alert you when you’re underinsured—particularly for expensive or customized vehicles. If you’re driving a high-value car or have invested in aftermarket upgrades, it’s essential to work with a live insurance agent who can help you select the right level of property damage and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. Agents understand your vehicle’s needs and can recommend coverage that matches.

What Happens When the Other Driver Has Poor Coverage?

If someone hits your vehicle and they’re carrying minimum coverage, your best bet is to file a no-fault claim through your own insurance. Your company will pay for the damages and then seek reimbursement from the other driver’s insurer. But here’s the catch: if your own policy doesn’t offer sufficient protection, you might be left footing the bill. This is why it’s vital to have adequate collision and comprehensive coverage, especially when driving a higher-end or modified vehicle.

OEM and Aftermarket Parts: Protect Your Modifications

Have you added a new spoiler, grille, or custom trim? Then you should consider adding a rider to your policy for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or declared aftermarket modifications. Without this rider, your insurer might replace damaged parts with cheaper alternatives—or worse, refuse to cover them altogether. Some insurers offer a contractual obligation to use OEM parts where available, ensuring that your vehicle is repaired to the same standard as before the accident.

Avoid Personal Liability with Proper Coverage

It’s not just about protecting your own car—if you cause an accident and damage someone else’s expensive EV or luxury vehicle, having low property damage limits could expose you to a lawsuit for the amount your insurance won’t cover. To avoid this, carry sufficient property damage limits in your policy. As vehicle prices continue to climb, so does the financial risk of inadequate coverage.

Which Insurance Should Handle Vehicle Repairs?

If you’re hit by someone with low coverage, your own insurer is often the best route to get your vehicle repaired properly and quickly. Make sure your policy is equipped to handle the kind of vehicle you drive. Bowers Law offers free auto insurance reviews to Maryland residents—no strings attached, no sales pitch. Just send them your policy declarations page, and they’ll walk you through whether your coverage is truly sufficient.