The main reason why insurers apply an excess is so they can eliminate most of, or if not all, of the minor or small claims. The cost to the insurer for the dealing with minor or small claims would only cover the administration charges therefore, they add an excess to the policy to avoid such minor claims.
Do you have to pay excess if you are at fault?
The general rule is that an excess is always payable when you make a claim, whether you are at fault or not. Sometimes insurers will insert terms into the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) where they do not require you to pay your excess or refund the excess in some limited circumstances.
Who should pay insurance excess?
When you make a claim your insurer will either deduct the applicable excesses from the amount it pays you, or direct you to pay the excesses to it, or to the appointed repairer or supplier. Your insurer may require you to pay the excess in full before it pays your claim or provides any benefits under your policy.
Who pays the excess on a car insurance claim?
Do I have to pay an excess on my car insurance policy if only the other party is claiming? An excess is the amount you pay towards your own repairs or claim, so you don’t have to pay an excess for a third party’s claim. Also, if you don’t claim for your own damage, you don’t pay an excess either.
Does insurance pay if I’m at fault?
If you live in a fault state, the person responsible for the accident will hold liability for anyone’s injuries. The other driver would file a claim with your insurance company, and you or your car insurance will pay for losses. In a no-fault state, however, each party’s auto insurance usually covers their losses.
Can you pay off insurance excess?
We might ask you to pay your excess to the repairer or supplier that we’ve arranged to manage your claim. Or, we might deduct the excess from a settlement we pay you. You can also pay your excess directly to us for your car insurance or your home insurance.
Is it better to have a lower excess?
The more you drive the higher the chance that you may be involved in a collision, even if you do all of the right things and are considered a safe driver. If so, it may be better to opt for a lower excess. This way, you’ll pay less if you need to make a claim – although your premium will be higher in the short term.
How do I claim my excess back?
If you have trouble getting your money back, you can take the insurance company or driver to court. If your insurance company have dealt with the claim, they should claim the excess back for you. If you have a no fault accident, a credit hire company can also make a claim on your behalf.