A Real-Life Fender Bender (Yes, Even Insurance Agents Have Accidents!)
By Lisa Keslar
Let’s be honest—no one expects to be in a car accident. We all think, I’m a safe driver. I pay attention. I don’t take risks. But accidents happen, even to the most careful drivers.
I know this firsthand because, well… I recently backed into my own daughter’s car.
Yes, you read that right. A licensed insurance agent—someone who helps others prepare for the unexpected—became the unexpected.
Fortunately, I had the right coverage, so while it was an embarrassing moment, it wasn’t a financial disaster. But this experience reminded me of something crucial: Too many people don’t review their coverage until it’s too late.
So, let’s talk about why even the best drivers need great auto insurance.
1. Accidents Happen to Everyone (Even You)
Most people think of insurance as something they only need for major accidents, but the reality is that even minor fender benders can be expensive.
A scratch here, a dent there—it all adds up. And if you don’t have the right coverage, even a low-speed accident could mean paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars out of pocket.
In my case, my policy covered the damage to both vehicles, saving me from a major bill.
2. Collision Coverage: The Difference Between “Oops” and “Oh No”
Many drivers assume that as long as they have insurance, they’re covered for any type of damage. But that’s not always the case.
One of the most important coverages to have is collision insurance, which helps pay for damage to your vehicle when you’re at fault in an accident.
If I didn’t have collision coverage, I would have been left paying for the damage to my car out of pocket—even though it was just a driveway mishap.
Key takeaway: If you want your car repairs covered regardless of fault, make sure your policy includes collision coverage.
3. Multi-Car Policies Can Save You Money and Hassle
Because my daughter’s car was on my multi-car policy, the claims process was much smoother than it would have been if we had separate insurers.
Benefit #1: Discounts – Most insurers offer multi-car discounts if you insure two or more vehicles on the same policy.
Benefit #2: Easier Claims – No back-and-forth between different insurance companies.
Benefit #3: Consistent Coverage – You don’t have to worry about gaps in protection.
If you have multiple cars in your household, bundling them on the same policy could save you money and headaches.
4. Deductibles Matter More Than You Think
Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance covers the rest.
For example:
🔹 If you have a $500 deductible and repairs cost $2,500, you pay $500, and insurance covers the remaining $2,000.
🔹 If you have a $1,500 deductible, you’d have to cover $1,500 yourself—ouch!
Because I had a lower deductible, I wasn’t stuck with a huge repair bill.
Take a minute to check your deductible right now. Would you be comfortable paying that amount in an unexpected accident? If not, it might be time for an adjustment.
5. Don’t Wait Until an Accident to Review Your Coverage
Most people only think about their insurance when they need to use it—but by then, it’s too late to make changes.
Here’s a quick Auto Insurance Check-Up to make sure you’re covered before an accident happens:
Do you have collision & comprehensive coverage?
Do you know your deductible amount?
Are all your household vehicles listed on your policy?
Do you have rental car reimbursement in case of repairs?
Have you reviewed your policy in the last 12 months?
If you can’t answer yes to all five questions, let’s talk. A quick free policy review could save you thousands of dollars in the future.
Final Thoughts: The Right Insurance Turns a Crisis Into an Inconvenience
Backing into my daughter’s car wasn’t my proudest moment, but I’m grateful that my insurance did its job.
If this story made you think, Wait, I don’t actually know what my policy covers…—that’s okay! You’re not alone.
Reach out to the office any time to go over your coverage. A 15-minute review today could save you from a financial headache tomorrow. 603-273-0983. https://keslarinsurance.com/contact-keslar-insurance-agency/
Stay safe out there!
#InsuranceMatters #FenderBender #AutoCoverage #InsuranceTips
