How To File An Auto Insurance Claim
August 24th, 08Every driver is required by law to carry some form of automobile insurance. This is to protect the interest and well being of the car’s owner. Insurance policies differ with each company and each holder as does the exact way those claims are filed. There are, however, enough similarities to give a general overview on the process.
Filing an insurance claim can be stressful and even a hassle but well worth it especially if extensive damage has been done. Most insurance claims are ones dealing with damage and not personal injury. No matter the type of injury or who is at fault what an insurance claim boils down to is proof.
Drivers need to be aware of the factors that are looked at as sources of proof. These are:
- What is told to the insurance companies.
- Witness statements
- A police report
- Physical damage of the car and the scene.
In fact, every driver is encouraged to carry a disposable camera and a pad and pen in the glove compartment just in case of an accident. The camera can be used to take pictures of your car and the other car along with other damage done. The pad and pen can be used to jot down witness names and numbers along with other important notes. Never trust your memory and write down everything.
When the accident occurs you want to first make sure no one is injured. If an ambulance is needed call one immediately. However, if everyone is fine but a little shaken call the non-emergency number for the police department.
A common mistake by drivers is neglecting to have the police involved. While having the cops come to the scene may be uncomfortable you will need that police report. If the police refuse to issue an accident report ask for an incident report.
You need to make sure to exchange information at the scene. Contact information, insurance information, licence plate number, and other details need to be collected. Again, do not rely on your memory and write everything down even the time and date of the accident.
Try to find any witnesses of the accident. Do not be surprised when potential witnesses refuse to talk to you or even offer information. Just try to find someone that saw the incident. If you can not find witnesses then you can rely on the police report.
Now, as soon as you possibly can give a call to your insurance company and report the accident. Many companies feature 24 hour claim service to it’s customers. You should also contact the other party’s insurance company to make them aware of the claim you filed against one of their customers.
After this the insurance adjuster will come out to view the damage and issue a dollar amount of the damage. You may dispute the settlement at this time. If you dispute the other party’s offer you will probably not receive any resolution so be aware of this when settling the claim.
More then likely you will never have to file an accident claim. Being prepared never hurts of course and it’s better to be safe then sorry.
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