Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

Can you file a claim on behalf of the insured if they are deceased?

My mother's car was hit and damaged (minor scratches) in a parking lot after she died. I'm not officially the executor of her estate, and I'm not on her insurance. Will her insurance still cover the damages? I don't know if I need to cancel her policy or try to get the damages covered first. 

May 20, 2022 Winter Park, FL

Answer
Author profile picture

Ross Martin

Manager, Content Quality

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty

Ross joined The Zebra as a writer and researcher in 2019. As a licensed insurance agent, he specializes in writing insurance content to help shoppers…

First of all, we're very sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. Our thoughts are with you and your family. As to your question, you mention that you're not the official executor of the estate. Do you know if there is an official executor? If you're in contact with the person who is, they would be best equipped to handle this.

The executor of her estate would need to reach out to the insurance carrier to see if the damages would still be covered. If they will cover the damages, an adjuster will be in contact with the executor to let them know the next steps in the claims process. The executor would also be the one able to cancel the policy afterwards.

However, if there is no executor to the estate, you can reach out to the insurance carrier to see what can be done on the matter. Hopefully this helps and if you have any other questions, please let us know.

 

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started. No phone number required.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Icon Fill Form

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Icon Agent

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare auto insurance rates and save up to $670 per year!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

What happens if someone makes a false car insurance claim against me?

Thank you for your question. After any accident, I recommend taking pictures and recording as much information as possible. If fault is difficult to determine, call 311 and file a police report. If you have any of this information currently, it can be helpful. At this point, I recommend contacting …
Sep 25, 2019 Madison, WI

Does a non-running vehicle need to be insured in Florida

There's a couple of things to think about here: If your car is registered you will need to have insurance on it, even if you are not driving it. If you do not have insurance, the state of Florida can suspend your license. Another option would be to turn your plates into the department…
Aug 1, 2018 Miami, FL

Whose insurance is liable if my car was broken into at a tow yard?

If your personal items were stolen then you'd have to claim that on your home or renters insurance policy. If you're trying to hold the tow company liable for the loss of your items, you may have to hire an attorney. I would recommend contacting your auto company first and then your rente…
Mar 5, 2017 Topeka, KS

Will GEICO increase my rates if I file a windshield claim?

This is a tricky question to answer. How a claim will impact your rate is specific to the coverage and company you have. In general, a windshield claim will affect your rate but not as much as a collision claim will. Companies consider the amount paid out on the claim when determining rate increase…
Aug 4, 2018 Charlotte, NC