Accident Terms and Definitions

Collision
Pays for damage to your car caused by a collision with another vehicle or with any other object, regardless who was at fault.

Insured
The person(s) entitled to coverage in case of an accident or loss.

Loss Due To Fire Title
The vehicle sustained major damage due to fire. In most states, fire damage titles are issued when the cost of repairing the vehicle for safe operation exceeds its fair market value.

Witness
Person who testifies under oath before a court, regarding what he/she has seen, heard or otherwise observed.

Deductible
The amount of the loss which the insured is responsible to pay before benefits from the insurance policy are payable.

Commissioner of Insurance
The title of the head of most state insurance departments. In some states, the Director or Superintendent of Insurance is used instead.

Medical Payments Coverage
Covers the medical costs (up to the specified limit you choose) resulting from an auto accident for you, your family, and others in your car. It pays regardless of fault.

Subpoena
Document issued by the authority of the court to compel a witness to appear and give testimony or produce documentary evidence in a proceeding. Failure to appear or produce is punishable by contempt of court.

Comparative Negligence
The percentage of fault shared by each driver in an accident in which both contribute to causing the collision.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UMC)
Provides coverage for a policyholder involved in a collision with a driver who does not have liability insurance.