Accident Terms and Definitions

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

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

Commissioner of Insurance
The title of the head of most state insurance departments. In some states, the Director or Superintendent of Insurance is used instead.

Comprehensive Coverage
Pays for damage to your car caused by reason other than collision, such as fire, theft, windstorm, flood, etc.

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

Full Tort
With this selection you retain unrestricted rights to bring suit against the negligent party.

Private Passenger Automobile
Four-wheeled motor vehicles of the private passenger, station wagon, or van type. Private passenger automobiles are designed for use on public highways and subject to motor vehicle registration.

Negligence
The absence of ordinary care.

Premium
The money paid for an insurance policy based upon the coverage provided.

Witness
Person who testifies under oath before a court, regarding what he/she has seen, heard or otherwise observed.