COST RECOVERY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Why bill for traffic crash responses?

The majority of services provided at the scene of a traffic crash are outside the scope of fire protection, criminal protection and/or criminal investigation.  A significant number of traffic crashes are caused by NON-taxpayers forcing the taxpayers to subsidize for services they receive no benefit from.

Why don’t taxes cover police/fire services at traffic crashes?

These services are not core government services.  Taxes cover basic police and fire services.  Basic services consist of fire protection for home/business and criminal protection and criminal investigation.  Traffic crashes are civil situations caused by negligent driving.  These services do not benefit the resident/taxpayer.  Furthermore, these services detract from safety services ability to serve and protect their own residents/taxpayers.

Is this double taxation?

No.  There is no out of pocket cost to a taxpayer. 

Is this a way for the city/county/township to make additional money?

No.  This is not a fund-generating program.  This is a program designed to protect taxpayer dollars.  This program recoups the money already spent by taxpayers and recycles it back into the budget for services that actually benefit the taxpayer. 

Who is billed for a traffic crash response?

Only the at-fault driver’s insurance would receive a claim.

Is my insurance company required to pay these claims?

Currently, 56% of insurance companies recognize the value of this program and voluntarily pay these claims.   Keeping policyholders safe helps limit potential liability costs for insurance companies, and as a result, protects their profit margins.

Most insurance companies claim to cover liabilities due to negligence. A traffic crash is a civil situation caused by negligent driving.  However, each policy, broker and company is unique.   We encourage you to contact your local broker to confirm that you are indeed covered.   The law requires that we maintain insurance, however, it does not mandate a specific company.  We urge you to shop for the best coverage.

What happens if my insurance company doesn’t cover me?

A resident/taxpayer is exempt from any out of pocket cost and the claim is written off.  A non-resident/non-taxpayer would be held financially accountable because they are not supporting safety services in that community.

What if the at-fault driver is un-insured?

You are required by law to maintain insurance.  The un-insured at-fault driver would be billed directly.

Will recovering cost raise my insurance rates?

No.  The State Insurance Commissioner controls insurance rates.  If your premium were adjusted, it would be because you were at fault, thus deeming you a higher risk.   This would occur regardless of this program or additional claim.

Is this program unwelcoming to neighboring communities or potential visitors?

No.  Statistics indicate that people avoid unsafe/high crime communities.   Tolls, hotel tax, recreational/park fees etc. are examples of other types of extraneous user fees that do NOT hinder visitors/tourism.