Accident Terms and Definitions

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

Medical Payments Coverage
Covers the medical costs (up to the specified limit you choose) resulting from an auto accident for you, your family, and others in your car. It pays regardless of fault.

Collision
Pays for damage to your car caused by a collision with another vehicle or with any other object, regardless who was at fault.

Quote
An estimate of the cost of insurance based on information supplied to the insurance company.

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.

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

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.

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

Accident
A collision involving an automobile and anything that causes damage to the automobile, including other automobiles, telephone poles, buildings, and trees.

Surcharge
An extra charge applied to the premium by the insurer, usually for at fault accidents or moving violations.