It is best to use parts from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), in order to repair your car after a car accident. It is sometimes not possible to use OEM parts and sometimes aftermarket parts are required. Some insurance policies will cover aftermarket parts. Others may have specific language that only partially covers them.
Examine Your Insurance Policy
Double-check your auto policy to see how parts are handled before you approve repairs to your vehicle after a collision. You could end up paying more for parts if you don’t follow the terms of your policy. Although aftermarket parts can be cheaper, policies may limit coverage to OEM parts. Some policies may not cover aftermarket parts, but will pay for repairs.
What are Aftermarket Parts?
Although aftermarket parts are allowed to be installed on vehicles, they cannot be purchased from the original manufacturer. They are generally a different brand but do not alter the vehicle’s appearance and are usually just as safe. They are also more affordable, so some auto insurance companies will replace damaged parts with aftermarket parts.
Aftermarket parts and vehicle modifications
Aftermarket parts can be used by vehicle owners to modify their vehicles to increase horsepower, fuel efficiency or cosmetics (e.g. wheels or tires). A vehicle that is deliberately altered from its original state when it was sold is considered to be insurable. Modifications can alter the amount of coverage an insurance company will cover. You may be surprised at the exclusions from your insurance policy if you are in an accident.
Can I add insurance coverage for aftermarket parts?
Aftermarket parts can be covered by auto insurance, but they are expensive. It may be available to you as an additional coverage for your comprehensive or collision insurance. You might not be able to get it from your insurance company, but you may find other providers who will insure vehicles that are unique.
Nevada: Who pays for vehicle damage?
Nevada has an at-fault system. This means that the person responsible for the accident must be liable for any damages. If you are a victim of an accident, you can file a claim with your auto insurance company directly to cover the vehicle’s repair costs. Their insurer can only pay for repairs up to the policyholder’s limits.
If the at-fault party has less than the minimum state requirement for property damage liability insurance ($20,000), this may not be sufficient to cover the vehicle’s damages. You have two options: sue the at fault party, or use your comprehensive or collision coverage auto insurance. Even if you sue, the at-fault party might not be able to pay the damages.
Talk to our experienced lawyers
Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers can help you with questions regarding insurance coverage for aftermarket components after a collision. To discuss your rights, our Las Vegas car accident lawyers will arrange a complimentary consultation.
The post Will my insurance cover aftermarket parts? was first published by Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers.