You wanted to do the responsible thing and decided to buy a hybrid or an electric vehicle, but did anyone explain how your car insurance may be affected? Since these cars have alternative engine designs, the costs of repairing them after an accident could be significantly higher. If you do not have the correct coverage, you could be responsible for covering your repairs.
TheFort Myers car accident lawyers with our firm can review your policy, determine your losses, and help you seek fair compensation from the at-fault party.
What’s the Difference Between Electric Cars vs Hybrids?
Your traditional car operates on a gas engine, also referred to as an internal combustion engine. In the simplest of descriptions, gas is released in the cylinder, it’s compressed, a spark ignites the compressed gases, and the explosion moves the piston.
With an electric car, the engine is replaced with a large high-voltage battery. The battery powers the drivetrain and is recharged via a plug.
With a hybrid car, both power systems exist, and electricity for the battery is created in two ways:
- Engine as Generator: The gas engine itself acts as a generator to charge the battery.
- Regenerative Braking: The kinetic energy from stopping turns the motor shaft, which is converted to electricity and stored in the battery.
While drivers now have greater options, gas engines are still the predominant type of vehicle.
Escalating Costs of Hybrid Cars vs Electric Car Insurance
Gas engines have been around for over a hundred years, and parts, fuel, and service are well established. The same cannot be said for hybrid and electric vehicles.
Due to the specialized parts and batteries, the costs of repairing these vehicles are on an escalating scale. Most insurance policies are based on repairs to a standard gas engine car. Hybrid vehicles, having both systems, are slightly more expensive, and an electric car, even more so.
To give some perspective, even the Fort Myers Fire Department must use specialized equipment to suppress the higher temperatures of an electric car on fire.
Because of these increased costs and risks,your insurance premiums will increase.
What Is Covered Under Florida No-Fault Insurance?
PerFlorida Statutes § 627.736, all drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This policy covers your medical expenses, your lost wages, and death benefits for a loved one.
PerFlorida Statutes § 324.022, all drivers must also carry a property damage liability (PDL) policy. This policy covers any damageyou cause to another person’s property, such as a car.
The laws further specify that each policy carry a minimum of $10,000. If the battery is damaged in either the hybrid or electric car, the battery repair only could exceed the $10,000 PDL limit.
Exploring Insurance Options for a Hybrid vs an Electric Car
There is no law that requires you to have additional insurance if you drive a hybrid or electric car. However, due to the repair costs, you may want to consider additional coverage:
- Collision Coverage: This policy covers repairs to your car after an accident and typically takes effect after you reach the deductible.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage: This policy covers any losses you suffered, such as medical bills, lost income, and car repairs, when the other driver has no or insufficient car insurance.
You should be aware that even if you have these policies, insurance companies will be reluctant to pay. They will look for opportunities to devalue or even deny any car accident claim you file.
What to Do After a Hybrid or Electric Car Accident in Fort Myers
To protect yourself after a car accident in your hybrid or electric car, we recommend you do the following:
Move Away From the Vehicle
The lithium-ion battery in most hybrid and electric cars is well protected, but if you see any smoke or fire, move away from the vehicle immediately. Fires from an electric battery can run to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to a gas engine fire at 1,500 degrees.
Call for Emergency Services
Call 911 so that the Fort Myers Police Department can generate a police report. Emergency responders can also assess any injuries and transport you to the emergency room if necessary.
If you do not go to the emergency room, see a doctor as soon as possible. Any time between the accident and seeing a doctor can be used to devalue your claim.
Gather Information and Evidence
While you are at the accident scene, and if your injuries permit, you can start collecting information that could prove very useful in your insurance claim:
- Take photographs of the accident scene, the vehicles, and your injuries
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver
- Ask witnesses for their names and contact information
You can also start a journal, chronicling your pain and recovery.
Do Not Admit Fault
When you speak with the police or your insurance company, be very mindful of what you say. Stick with the facts that you know. Don’t make assumptions and absolutely do not admit fault.
Insurance adjusters may call and ask how you are feeling. Do not say you feel fine. They will use such innocent comments against you. Do not even post on social media.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney as Soon as Possible
Our law firm provides free case consultations. We can review your case with you and explain your next steps. If we decide to work together, we can investigate the accident and exploreyour legal options for covering the costs of repairing or replacing your hybrid or electric car.
Call Today for Legal Help on Your Fort Myers Car Accident Claim
TheFort Myers personal injury attorneys with the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato can pursue the funds you need following a car accident with your hybrid or electric car. Call us today at (844) 643-7200 to get started.