Will my insurance cover the repair?

Which coverage pays — in plain English

• Collision coverage — pays for damage to your car when you hit another vehicle or object, regardless of fault. Optional on most policies but required if you're financing or leasing.
• Comprehensive coverage — pays for non-collision damage: hail, falling branches, theft, vandalism, deer, fire, flooding.
• Liability coverage — pays the other driver's damages when you're at fault. Required by NJ law.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist — pays for your damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough.

What's a deductible?

The deductible is the part of the repair bill you pay out of pocket before your insurance pays the rest. If your deductible is $500 and the repair is $4,500, you pay $500 and the insurance company pays $4,000 directly to 1st Effect Auto.

If the other driver was at fault

You can either go through their liability insurance (no deductible for you, but it can be slower) or use your own collision coverage and let your insurer pursue the other carrier — your insurer will refund your deductible if they recover the money. We work with whichever carrier you choose.

We bill your insurance directly

Once the claim is open and authorized, you don't have to chase paperwork. We submit the estimate, handle supplements, order parts, and bill the carrier. You see one number — your deductible. See the full claims process or call (973) 406-6363 with your claim number ready.