Can Your Auto Insurance Deductible Be Waived?

When you purchase car insurance your policy includes a deductible. You must pay the specified deductible amount before your insurance company pays for the remaining repair costs. In certain situations, the deductible can be waived. If you’re looking for the best deductibles, it can help to compare car insurance rates.

How to Get Your Car Insurance Deductible Waived?

Here are some scenarios that might allow your deductible to be waived:

 1. You have broad collision coverage

If you have broad collision coverage you may be able to have your deductible waived:

• If you are less than one-half responsible for the crash
• If you are more than one-half responsible, the deductible stands and you have to pay it.
• If the other person in the collision is completely at fault, that person’s insurance will typically pay all repair charges, including what you would have paid for the deductible

2. You have purchased a car insurance deductible waiver

If it’s available in your state, you can purchase a collision deductible waiver (CDW). The CDW allows you to avoid paying a deductible in exchange for a nominal hike in the cost of your monthly premium. With a CDW, you can waive your deductible under certain circumstances.

• Some CDWs will pay your deductible if you’re in a collision with an uninsured driver.
• Some policies will kick in if the other at-fault individual has the same insurance that you do.
• Some policies will pay your deductible if your car is considered a total loss.
• CDWs do not pay if the person who hit you involves you in a hit-and-run accident.

3. The other driver is uninsured

In some states you can purchase an uninsured motorist protection-damage policy (UMPD), which covers you up to a specified amount if the other driver involved in the accident doesn’t have auto insurance.

4. You need to repair a crack in your windshield or windows

A comprehensive auto insurance policy will usually waive your deductible if you need to replace a windshield or window due to a crack. You may have a small deductible for glass replacement, or you may not have to pay a deductible at all.

While some auto body shops may offer to waive your deductible, beware. There’s a good chance they’re overcharging your insurance company to make up for it, and that’s considered fraud.

Bottom line, ask your insurance company under which circumstances your deductible might be waived, and if you want a CDW or UMPD, be sure to ask if your provider sells them.

For more information about car insurance and to get and compare quotes, visit our Auto Insurance page.