How to File an Accident Claim
You must provide as much information regarding the incident as you can to your agent and insurer. This will help you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
After your insurance company has evaluated the damage to your vehicle, they will decide to either repair it or pay you for the actual value (ACV) in the event that it's not economically feasible to repair it.
1. Contact the police
You should always report car accidents, unless there is a vehicle policy that excludes the need for you to contact the police. Even if the damage is minor the police will make an official accident report which could be useful in filing insurance claims or pursuing lawsuits against the person responsible.
The police will carry out an extensive investigation, speaking to all parties involved and any witnesses. They will also determine who is to blame. Alongside capturing the physical evidence that is found at the scene of the crash, a police officer's opinion on what happened and who was at fault is extremely helpful in negotiating compensation with an insurer or in court.
Although it is possible to submit a claim to your insurance company without any police report, it can make it harder to prove negligence or get a fair settlement. If you are in an accident that causes injuries, it's vital to notify the police. This will not only satisfy your legal obligations, but will also aid you in settling a claim against another driver.
This is an indication that something could be wrong if the driver isn't willing to let you verify their information. Contact the police to confirm that everyone is honest and to stop tempers from being out of control during a stressful time.
Make sure you inform the police of the details of your accident and give them what they require. Any statements you make may be included in the official police report which could be used against you in the insurance claims process or during an appeal. If you accept not calling the police when you are involved in an accident that results in injury, this is typically a bad idea as it could raise suspicions and could impede your case. Contact a Bronx injury lawyer if you have questions about reporting an incident to the police. The law may not oblige you to do it however your insurance policy most likely does.
2. Gather Information
As soon as you are in a position to do so, and it is safe and practical begin gathering information about the incident. This could include pictures showing the damage to the vehicle as well as license plate numbers, the time as well as weather conditions and road angles. It is also useful to know the name and contact information of witnesses. Be careful what you say. The statements you make at the accident scene may come back and haunt you in the future.
The insurance company would like to determine who was responsible in the accident. This is usually determined by looking at the state laws that define fault and analyzing the facts. The report will be based upon the accounts of all involved parties, including the police and witnesses.
The insurance company will also require information if there were any injuries that were caused by the
accident law firms. It is essential to keep all medical bills and records along with any medical reports regarding the injury. Insurance companies may request an independent medical examiner to review the medical records and notes from the doctor.
It is essential to have an estimate of repair in case your car was damaged in an accident. The insurance company will allow them to determine the actual value of your car's cash which will serve as a basis for the amount they'll reimburse you for your loss.
Generally speaking, damages can be classified into two categories: general and special. Special damages are the ones that are easily quantifiable, such as medical bills and lost wages. General damages are more difficult to pin down like pain and suffering. Providing proof of the amount of both damages will be necessary to be able to file a successful claim. Having all of this information will make it much easier to file an insurance claim. You can do this by calling your agent, filling out an online claim form or through an app, or speaking to one of their representatives over the phone.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Most insurance companies will ask you to supply documentation in regard to the accident. You will need to provide medical documents, receipts for any expenses that you incurred due to your injury, as well as evidence of income loss due to the absence from work. The insurance company will also look over your car, and the damage caused by an accident. The insurer will then utilize this information to determine the worth of your claim and issue a check for compensation.
It is important to state the facts regarding what happened when you speak with your insurance company. It is also important to not get into a fight with the representative as this could cause your situation to get worse. It is also essential to be aware about any injuries you've sustained and only share the details after your doctor confirms that it's true.
Depending on where you live the deadline for reporting an accident to your insurance company may differ. In New York, which is considered to be a state with no fault, your auto insurance will cover you up to a certain limit for personal injury and damage done to your vehicle regardless of who was at fault for the accident. It is crucial to call your insurance company as soon after the accident as soon as is possible.
Typically, your insurance provider will then forward the information about your accident on to the claims department. You will then receive a note to confirm that the claim was received and is being processed. Often there will be an estimated time frame provided to you by the insurance company for when they expect to have the damage repaired or settlement of the claim.
Be sure to stick to these deadlines. If you are not happy with the results of your case, it is always a good idea to speak to an attorney about your options. They can assist you in determining whether you can appeal and also help ensure that your rights are protected.
4. Contact an attorney
It is important to start a claim right away if you are involved in an accident or damage to your vehicle or home, or any other property. If you have an injury, you should also file an claim. This is usually a requirement of your insurance policy and in the absence of this, it could result in your insurance company refusing to pay the claim or increasing your costs, as well as other consequences such as losing the right to sue for compensation for your injuries or loss.
Insurance companies usually have a team or individual that will collaborate with you to analyze your claims. This could involve arranging for an adjuster to look over the damage to your vehicle, for instance. If you decide to go this route, it is vital to take photos and videos of the damage, if it is safe to do so without putting at risk yourself or others, as it can greatly aid in your case.
The next step is to make sure that you meet the deadlines set by your state or by the insurance company. If you're unsure what you have to do, it is best to consult with an attorney who is familiar with the rules and regulations of your insurance company, as well as the requirements of your particular policy.
An experienced car
accident lawyer can help you determine which kind of insurance you have available and the amount of the compensation you could be entitled to. Your Slater & Zurz attorney will also have experience in insurance settlement negotiations and know the strategies employed by insurance companies in order to cut their payouts, which could help you save a significant amount of money.