Need to submit a car accident claim?
There was an accident, damage has occurred, police reports have been filed, and you need to get your car into the shop. You have filed a claim with your car insurance company, and now it is time to work with your insurers (or the insurers of the other car owner) to get the payout you need to take care of your car.
The first, and most important thing to remember
Be consistent when talking with car accident claim adjusters. You need to avoid admitting fault, but consistently stay truthful in explaining what happened. You need to keep your facts straight. This is particularly true when the other driver involved in the accident is telling a different story when it comes to what caused the accident.
When you contact the Insurance Company
Make sure to have all of your information readily available. Have your paperwork; including the police report actually in hand, whenever you speak with someone representing the Insurance Company. All these documents are critical to your ability to successfully negotiate with the Insurance Company Represenatative. After all, if the other driver’s Insurance Company claims that the police report puts you at fault for the accident. How can you disagree; if you do not actually have a copy of the police report? Make sure to have a Full Police Report of the automobile accident you were involved in. Additionally, having all of the paperwork shows the insurer that you are not a fool, and will not be taken advantage of.
Know what settlement amount you are seeking
When trying to research and find an actual figure, there are many things to consider.
- What are the facts?
- Who was at fault?
- Were you injured?
- What are your medical expenses?
- Will there be additional medical expenses in the future?
- Did you miss work, and therefore lose some of your salary?
- Were you unable to clean or take care of your children because of your injuries and needed to hire assistance?
All of these issues should be factored into the value of your insurance claim. Also, any additional special circumstances – such as not being able to assist an elderly parent; must also be considered.
It is highly likely that the insurance agent – particularly if they are from the other driver’s policy – will attempt to bully you into accepting a lower payment. Stand firm! Do not allow them to threaten you. If you feel their behavior is not professional, you can always file a complaint with your state’s Department of Insurance. It might take a bit longer to get the amount you want, but if you stand firm in your demands, you will receive it. If there is ever any question, it is not a bad idea to invest in a car accident attorney. They can handle all of the negotiations for you and help you reach the amount you need.
Being in a car accident is a difficult and frustrating experience, particularly if you are injured. However, if you have car insurance policy, you know you will be taken care of. Hopefully when it comes to negotiate your settlement, you will find this information helpful and succeed. Good luck!