Unfortunately, being in a car crash is one of the most stressful situations that anyone could ever find themselves in. Thankfully, the process of filing an auto insurance claim can be simplified by knowing what to do at each step. No matter how serious your accident may have been, there are measures that you can take to ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve for damages, medical expenses, and other losses.
However, knowing the claims process can help you avoid key pitfalls that could postpone your settlement and/or cost you less of your total settlement. It is the book for anyone who has recently been in a car accident and would like to learn how to pursue a claim with their auto insurance carrier.
Top 9 steps to filing an Auto Insurance Claim.
Step 1: Make safety the number one priority after the accident
The priority after an accident is everyone’s safety. Look for signs of injury in anyone involved in the crash and in yourself – call 911 for medical help if needed. If possible, park on the right-hand side of the road. It will stop any additional injuries. Stay calm and don’t argue with the other driver. What happens right after the accident is very important in the claims process.
Step 2: Collect the required information
Before leaving the scene, attempt to gather as much information about the accident as possible. Be sure to record:
- The name and contact details of other drivers and passengers
- Their driver’s license and insurance information
- Their vehicle’s license plate, make, and model.
- Witness contact information
Ensuring all information is available will make it easier to avoid conflicts with the other party or the insurance carrier.
Step 3: Document the Accident Scene
The evidence is likely the most pivotal element of the claims process.
Have photos/videos of:
- Damage to vehicles
- Vehicle Registration Plates for the cars involved
- Condition of the road surface
- Signs and road signals, or any other object in/on the roadway.
- Tire tracks and/or debris on the roadway
- Injuries to any individual who is involved in the incident are visible.
Photos from various perspectives would be useful for showing the damage.
Step 4: File a police report
An accident report prepared by police officers will support an insurance claim by supplying the insurance company with objective facts about what occurred during the collision. This will include speaking with all parties involved, obtaining witness reports, assessing the condition of the road, and issuing a preliminary judgment of liability.
Step 5: Your insurer will be notified in
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible about the accident. Your insurance company may have claim reporting time limits. It’s important to be prepared with the following: the date and time of the accident, the location of the accident, the person(s) involved, and a description of the incident. Be completely truthful and do not offer speculation as to liability or injuries, and don’t answer any questions about which you aren’t sure.
Step 6: Work with the Claims Adjuster
Once you make a claim, the company will send an adjuster to investigate the accident. They will read the police report, contact all parties concerned, and go on-site to investigate any damage to vehicles. Help the adjuster with their investigation, but watch your words, particularly when making recorded statements. Be honest, be to the point, and refrain from speculation.
Step 7: Get Estimates For Repairs
Get repair estimates to learn more about the cost of repairs for your home. Once the adjuster determines the damage, you must obtain estimates from a shop where you plan to repair it. However, most insurance companies would ask you to get quotes from authorized dealers. Save copies of your:
- Repair estimates
- Invoices
- Rental car expenses
- Towing receipts
Step 8:Track Medical Expenses
It’s crucial to keep a record of all the dollars spent on treatment if you’ve been injured. Keep all receipts and bills for doctor visits, hospital bills, prescription charges, physical therapy, and travel.
Step 9: Carefully consider the Settlement Offer
According to our car accident lawyer in Winter Haven, you might receive a settlement from the insurance company after their own investigation. The offer might not be sufficient, so it is worth considering to ensure you receive enough funds to cover your vehicle repairs, medical costs, lost wages, and future treatment. Once you agree to a settlement, you can only settle for that amount for that claim.
| Steps to File an Auto Insurance Claim |
|---|
| Make safety the number one priority after the accident |
| Collect the required information |
| Document the accident scene |
| File a police report |
| Notify your insurance company |
| Work with the claims adjuster |
| Get repair estimates |
| Track medical expenses |
| Review the settlement offer carefully |
When Do You Need the Help of a Car Accident Attorney?
There are cases where it’s best to seek legal counsel. If you should consult an attorney, then:
- liability is unclear
- Injuries are severe
- Your insurance company does not agree to a settlement or offers a settlement that is lower than what you want.
At Abercrombie P.A., our qualified personal injury attorney in Winter Haven will be able to obtain evidence, talk with insurance adjusters, and pursue the maximum for you according to the law. A car accident lawyer Winter Haven will be able to see if there is a chance for damages beyond the scope of your auto insurance policy’s liability limits.
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Final Thoughts
The auto insurance claim process is not just about notifying your insurance company of an accident; it’s a complex procedure that demands attention to detail, prompt communication, and a thorough understanding of your rights. If you’ve been in an accident and are looking for a bit of assistance in dealing with the claims process or feel you are being dealt with unfairly by your insurance provider, you could look into hiring a car accident lawyer.