When you’ve been involved in a car accident, you want an auto body collision repair expert to fix your vehicle as soon as possible, but how do you determine who will pay for the repairs? Some states, including Wisconsin, are “fault” states when it comes to car accidents. Here’s what you should know about this term and how it can affect your collision repairs.

What Is a “Fault” State?

In states that follow a fault-based system for determining liability in a car accident, the person who caused the accident is financially responsible for any resulting bodily injuries and vehicle damage. All drivers are required to have insurance on their vehicles, and the at-fault person’s insurance company should cover the expenses for any necessary medical treatment and auto body collision repairs up to the policy limit.

How Is Fault Determined in Wisconsin?

Eyewitness testimony, photos of the accident scene, and police reports can all be used to establish who was at fault. Sometimes, such as when someone makes an illegal turn or runs a stop sign, it might be easily apparent who caused the car accident. In other cases, such as when a motorist is texting and driving, the accident might be a matter of negligence. If multiple drivers are at fault for the same accident, such as if one driver was speeding and the other was texting, they share responsibility for the cost of medical treatment and auto body collision repairs. In some instances, such as when an accident is caused by a vehicle manufacturer defect or a commercial trucking company that overworks its drivers, a company may be found at fault.

Schaller Jacobson Collision and Automotive Repair is a full-service auto shop that has been serving customers in the La Crosse, WI, area for almost 20 years. If you need brake service, new tires, or wheel alignment or have been in a car accident and require auto body collision repairs, their certified technicians guarantee you’ll be satisfied with their work. Call (608) 788-2545 today to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to explore their full range of services.