"I Ran Over Something I Couldn’t See in the Road…Why Is It My Fault?"
- Ronelle Hunte-Roddy
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 6
It’s a scenario many drivers can relate to: You're cruising along, focused on the road, and suddenly—bam—you hit something that seemingly appeared out of nowhere. Maybe it was debris that fell from a truck, a deep pothole, or even a stray tire. The damage is done, and now you’re stuck asking: Why is this my fault?
Let’s break down what happens in situations like this and what you should know before filing a claim with your insurance.
💥 Comprehensive vs. Collision Coverage: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage is key to knowing how your insurer will handle this type of incident.
▶️ Collision Coverage
Collision coverage kicks in when your vehicle hits something—or something hits your vehicle—regardless of fault. This includes:
Running over an object in the road
Hitting a pothole that causes undercarriage damage
Colliding with another vehicle or a fixed object (pole, fence, wall, etc.)
Important: Running over an unseen object or debris typically falls under collision coverage—not comprehensive.
🌪️ Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive is for non-collision events like:
Theft or vandalism
Fire
Natural disasters (hail, flood, wind)
Hitting an animal (e.g., deer)
In most cases, comprehensive claims are not viewed as "at-fault" and typically don't affect your premium as much—if at all.
⚠️ So, Why Is This Collision Considered Your Fault?
In insurance terms, “fault” doesn’t always mean negligence. It means your insurer is paying out a claim on your behalf. When you file a collision claim, it’s recorded as an at-fault incident—even if the object in the road was impossible to avoid.
Why? Because:
The insurance company wasn’t able to recover money from another party.
You had “control” of the vehicle, and no third-party was officially responsible.
That’s why this kind of claim often results in a rate increase—especially if you’ve had other claims recently.
💸 Should You File a Claim or Pay Out of Pocket?
Before rushing to file a claim, here’s what you should do:
✅ Get a Repair Estimate First
Let’s say your deductible is $1,000 and the damage is $1,200. Filing a claim for $200 in reimbursement may not be worth the potential increase in your premium for the next few years.
Some collision claims can increase your rate by 10–40% depending on your carrier, state, and prior history.
📝 Ask Yourself:
How much will the repair cost?
What’s my deductible?
Can I afford to fix this without involving insurance?
Do I have accident forgiveness on my policy?
🚗 What Else You Should Know:
📈 Collision Claims Stay on Your Record
Most insurance companies keep claims on file for 3 to 5 years, and they can impact your:
Renewal pricing
Eligibility for certain discounts
Ability to switch carriers without higher initial rates
🧾 Document Everything
Take photos of the damage, the object (if still present), and the surrounding area. Even if you don’t file a claim, having documentation helps if more damage shows up later.
🛠️ Consider a Repair Shop That Offers Insurance Guidance
Some body shops work closely with insurers and can help you determine whether a claim makes financial sense.
✅ Final Takeaway: Think Before You Claim
Yes, it's frustrating to be held financially responsible for something you didn’t cause. But when it comes to auto insurance, the type of coverage matters more than the intent or visibility of the object.
Running over something in the road is almost always a collision claim—and yes, that typically counts against you. But that doesn’t mean you always need to file. We recommend getting an estimate first and weighing the long-term impact.
Need Advice Before Filing?
We’re here to help! If you’re unsure whether to file a claim or how it might affect your rates, reach out to us at Customized Insurance Brokers. We’ll walk you through your options and help you make the best decision for your wallet and your peace of mind.
📞 Call: 770-755-1775
📧 Email: ronelle@cibinsure.com
🌐 Visit: www.cibinsure.com
🚦 Understanding Your Coverage Options
When it comes to auto insurance, understanding your coverage options is essential. This knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions.
📚 The Importance of Knowledge
Many drivers are unaware of the nuances between different types of coverage. This can lead to confusion when filing claims. I encourage everyone to take the time to read their policy documents. Familiarizing yourself with the terms can save you from unexpected surprises later.
🔍 Review Your Policy Regularly
Life changes, and so do your insurance needs. Regularly reviewing your policy ensures that you have the right coverage. If you’ve made significant life changes—like moving, changing jobs, or adding a new driver to your policy—it’s wise to reassess your coverage.
🛡️ Consider Additional Coverage Options
Depending on your situation, you might want to consider additional coverage options. For instance, gap insurance can cover the difference between what you owe on your vehicle and its actual cash value in case of a total loss. This is especially useful for those who finance their vehicles.
🌟 Building a Relationship with Your Insurance Agent
Having a good relationship with your insurance agent can be invaluable. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your unique situation.
🤝 Ask Questions
Never hesitate to ask questions. Whether it’s about your current policy or potential changes, your agent is there to help. They can clarify any doubts you may have and guide you through the complexities of insurance.
📞 Regular Check-Ins
Consider scheduling regular check-ins with your agent. This can help you stay updated on any changes in your coverage or potential discounts you might qualify for.
🏆 Conclusion: Take Control of Your Insurance Journey
Navigating the world of auto insurance can be daunting. However, with the right knowledge and support, you can take control of your insurance journey. Remember, understanding your coverage and knowing when to file a claim can make a significant difference in your financial well-being.
If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Customized Insurance Brokers, we are committed to helping you find the perfect coverage that fits your unique needs. Let us be your trusted partner in securing your financial future.