Accident Terms and Definitions

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

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

Dismantled Title
The vehicle sustained major damage to one or more major component parts and the cost of repairing the vehicle for safe operation exceeds its fair market value.

Insured
The person(s) entitled to coverage in case of an accident or loss.

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

Summons
Document or writ directing the sheriff or other officer to notify a person that an action has been commenced against him in court and that he is required to appear, on a certain day, and answer the complaint in such action.

Claim
Notice to an insurer of a loss that under the terms and conditions of a policy may be covered.

Loss Due To Fire Title
The vehicle sustained major damage due to fire. In most states, fire damage titles are issued when the cost of repairing the vehicle for safe operation exceeds its fair market value.

Limits
The maximum amount of benefits the insurance company agrees to pay in the event of a loss.

Salvage
Property taken over by an insurer to reduce its loss.