While the first consideration of any collision victim is to obtain prompt medical care, the second consideration will likely be resolution of any vehicle damage, either through repair of the vehicle or replacement if the vehicle is a total loss. In general, there are three potential avenues of coverage available for vehicle repair or replacement: property damage liability, collision, or uninsured motorists property damage.
Briefly, property damage liability coverage applies when another driver is clearly to blame for property damage. The at-fault driver’s insurance company is responsible for the cost of repair or replacement of the vehicle and the cost of expenses associated with alternate transportation while the vehicle is out of service (such as a rental car, bus pass, etc.).
If there is a dispute as to who caused the collision or if an insurance company is handling the claim slowly or unfairly, you may be able to obtain coverage under your own insurance policies if it provides collision coverage. Collision coverage will pay for the repair or replacement of the vehicles listed on the policy, regardless of fault; however, you will be subject to any applicable deductibles.
Uninsured motorist property damage coverage, if provided under the terms of the automobile insurance policy, is available only when it can be shown that the property damage resulted from the negligence of a hit-&-run or uninsured driver.