It is common knowledge that driving a car without a valid license attracts heavy fines. We also know that our vehicles need a third-party insurance policy. In the event of theft, damage, or an accident, auto insurance guarantees financial protection. Lack of sufficient knowledge about the insurance claims process can lead to rejection or insufficient compensation. To avoid these two mishaps, we should practice the following steps when filing for an auto insurance claim, or indeed when looking to compare van insurance quotes in the future.
Informing the Law Enforcement Authorities
Failure to report an accident can result in serious legal issues. We must therefore report the incident to the nearest police station if we want to make a successful auto insurance claim. Sometimes, a second party involved in the accident could be trying to settle the case illegally. We must not accept such casual agreements.
Informing the Insurance Provider ASAP
Just as it is crucial to inform the police about a car accident, it is paramount to report to the insurance company. Most companies give a window of one to three days. Late cases have a high possibility of facing denial.
Filing a Complete Claim
While the deadline differs by state, we should not wait too long to file an insurance claim. Getting a car evaluation immediately after an accident is a prudent step to opening a claim quickly. Some damages may seem minor only to turn out into serious interior breakages. When collecting evidence, it is imperative to show all damages to tires, chassis, body, headlights, etc. We have to document everything and have written proof of the condition of the car without leaving out any details.
Avoiding Unnecessary Claims
Collision coverage is enough to cater to minor damages as long as the vehicle hasn’t hurt anyone or damaged property. In this case, we may skip the insurance claim because the repair cost would cost less than the deductible amount. Claiming compensation is only viable when the repair cost exceeds the deductible amount by a significant range. Issues like wrapping a vehicle around a tree are worth claiming for insurance reimbursement.
Saying No to Quick Settlements
In a serious car injury case, high medical bills are expected in addition to vehicle damage and possible loss of income. Insurance providers understand the desperation we go through after an accident and may offer a lump sum amount to settle the case. Yet, it is less than what we deserve from a legal point of view. The problem is that every time we accept the big check, we immediately lose the right to file a case on the same matter. Beyond medical treatment, there is a need for vocational and physical therapy after a serious personal injury. The rehabilitation process is an ongoing program that can bring setbacks in the recovery process. As such, it is hard to tell the exact settlement that is needed to recover completely. Accepting a quick settlement is thus a big blunder that can leave us stuck with hefty medical bills.
Seeking Legal Help
Some insurance adjusters lie to us that we don’t need an attorney to file a claim. This is what insurance companies want so they can have an advantage over the filed case. Hiring an experienced auto insurance lawyer eliminates disputes concerning our legal rights. A good attorney offers to review the accident and the injuries at no fee. Then they propose the way forward. They only ask for payment after successfully obtaining an insurance settlement on our behalf. So, most accident lawyers pursue cases that have the possibility of recovering a worthwhile reimbursement.
Taking Photos
Fresh photographs of the scene of the accident are critical to personal injury claims. The position of colliding vehicles with respect to traffic rules is key to winning an insurance claim. Documenting the weather and road conditions is equally important. This requires prompt action before a tow truck comes to remove the vehicle from the road.
Reporting the Truth
Lying about the circumstances leading to personal injury by a vehicle is a crime. There is no need to forge evidence to suit our situation. Again, it is good to be honest, so the jury doesn’t invalidate a misrepresented claim. We know that there are traffic cameras on the highways. Moreover, witnesses have cameras and might post pictures on social media to incriminate us.
Our willingness to tell the accident story can sometimes be an issue. There is no need to give too much information that might affect the claim. Offering just enough information as requested by the adjuster is the way to go. We only need to give straight answers without elaborating the facts. Lastly, we must never run away from an accident spot. It is our responsibility to follow the right protocol to the latter to support a full settlement.
