You always have to pay your deductible when the insurance company pays you. You have the option of suing the other driver but if you win you won't see the money for years. I always suggest having full coverage with $250 deductible on your daily driver. If you have a 2nd, 3rd, whatever car you can get a higher deductible and/or less coverage. My 2 cars with full coverage and $500 deductible is only $70 a month