Do I have to pay out of pocket when using car insurance?
2 Answers
Most insurance companies require car owners to pay for the repairs upfront, as they need to review the repair invoices and other relevant claim materials submitted by the owner before making the reimbursement. Here is some additional information: 1. Call 95511 to report the incident: Immediately dial 95511-9 to report the accident after it occurs. A claims specialist will arrange assistance based on your situation. 2. Accident investigation: The surveyor provides 7x24 on-site accident investigation services, confirming the insurance liability, loss details, and costs, and recommending a repair plan. 3. Confirm the repair plan: Choose the method for repairing the damaged property, including selecting a vehicle repair shop. Customers who meet the fast claim conditions can use the quick claim process, completing it in 4 steps.
I've been driving for over a decade, and when using insurance for car repairs, you usually have to pay a portion yourself—this is called the deductible. The policy will specify the amount, such as 500 or 1,000 yuan. After an accident, you must first pay this amount out of pocket before the insurance company covers the rest. If you have comprehensive coverage, it may include more, but the deductible still applies. It's advisable to regularly check your policy details to understand the specific terms. For minor scratches, paying out of pocket might be cheaper, as filing a claim could raise next year’s premium, making it not worth it. Additionally, damage to different parts of the vehicle affects repair costs and cost-sharing ratios—knowing this in advance can prevent unexpected expenses. In short, insurance isn’t free; budget accordingly, and always prioritize road safety.
