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How do you crash your car for insurance money?

I am behind on bills and need extra cash. I know insurance companies will pay out if your car is totaled. Can I crash my car to get insurance money?

avatar
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“While falling behind on bills can be scary, crashing your car for insurance money is never a good idea.
Car insurance companies investigate accidents prior to paying out insured parties. Your
insurer
 is likely to deny your claim if you crash your car on purpose—they may fail to find proof you were in a legitimate accident or find verifiable proof you were trying to pull one over on them.
You could also face fraud charges—and insurance fraud is a serious crime. Punishment may include fines and/or jail time.
Although it may seem tempting to crash your car for extra cash, you also have to remember you won’t have a vehicle after that. When a car is totaled in an accident, the insurance company pays out the
actual cash value
 of the car and then takes possession of it.
And even if your car isn’t totaled and just needs repairs, you likely wouldn’t receive any money directly. The insurer typically pays the auto repair shop as opposed to writing you a check.
If you need extra cash, here are some better options:
  • Save money on car insurance by shopping around. The
    Jerry
     app makes it quick and easy. Jerry will gather quotes from top name-brand insurers in minutes and deliver low-cost rates directly to your phone for free. Jerry will even help you switch policies or providers and cancel your old insurance.
  • If you don’t need your vehicle,
    sell it
    !
  • Or if you still owe money on your loan, you could also
    refinance
     to reduce your monthly payments.”
MORE:
Can you keep your totaled car? It depends…
Car Insurance FraudCar Insurance Claims
View full answer 
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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