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.

Surcharge
An extra charge applied to the premium by the insurer, usually for at fault accidents or moving violations.

Misdemeanor
Criminal offenses less than felonies; generally those punishable by fine or imprisonment of less than 90 days in a local facility. A gross misdemeanor is a criminal offense for which an adult could be sent to jail for up to one year, pay a fine up to $5,000 or both.

Broker
A person who for payment of a fee procures insurance on your behalf.

Hit and Run
An accident caused by someone who does not stop to assist or provide the required and necessary information.

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

Venue
The specific county, city or geographical area in which a court has jurisdiction

Towing & Labor Coverage
Pays for towing charges when your car can’t be driven. Also pays labor charges, such as changing a flat tire, at the place where your car broke down.

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

Negligence
The absence of ordinary care.