After being involved in an accident, the primary step following the accident is engaging with insurance companies. Although insurance coverage is intended to provide financial protection, do not deceive yourself by giving the insurance company the benefit of the doubt.
The company representatives may not provide accurate information because they want to protect their company. Learn how an attorney can help you fight for your rights in the car accident claim process. This article explores the dos and don’ts of dealing with insurance companies after an accident.
Table of Contents
The Do’s
Below are the insurance claims do’s after a car accident:
Report the Accident
Your legal obligation is to report any car accident that causes death, injury, or property damage. When the police arrive at the scene, provide truthful statements about the moments leading up to the crash.
Promptly Notify Your Insurance Company
You should notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt reporting. Please provide them with factual information regarding the accident, including:
- Date
- Time
- Location
- A description of what occurred
Leave the rest of the details to your attorney after providing the facts.
Review Your Insurance Policy
Ensure you are familiar with your car insurance policy terms and coverage limits. Learn the types of damages they cover, including medical expenses or property damage. Review the limitations affecting your claim and set practical expectations about the claims process.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you sustained visible injuries in an accident, see a physician immediately. Car accidents can result in severe injuries, including internal organ damage or traumatic brain injuries. Seeking prompt medical attention protects your health.
If you skip the hospital visit, insurance companies might argue that your injuries were not sustained in the accident. They may also claim that some were pre-existing conditions. Visiting the hospital gives you a better chance of getting fair compensation for your accident and sustained injuries.
Collect Information Relevant to the Accident
Collect information, if possible, while at the accident scene, and you are not severely injured. This includes the other vehicles’ information, insurance information, and addresses. Also, try getting contact information from any available witnesses.
Save Important Receipts
Saving the necessary receipts is crucial to receiving fair compensation after an accident. These receipts include medical bills, lost wages or reduced earning capacity, and the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property. This information will serve as solid evidence during the claims process and put you in a better position to receive fair compensation.
The Don’ts
Below are the don’ts for car accident insurance claims:
Do Not Admit Fault
Avoid admitting fault or apologizing, as it is interpreted as an admission of guilt. Instead, allow the investigators to do their job and determine who was liable. Accepting blame will affect your claims process, and you may not recover a fair settlement.
Don’t Settle Too Fast
Resist the urge to settle your claim quickly. Refrain from being tempted to take the first settlement offer. Insurance adjusters often lowball you when you are vulnerable after an accident. Take time with your attorney to accurately calculate the damages before settling.
Don’t Sign a Settlement Before Consulting an Attorney
Consulting your attorney can help you determine a fair settlement and bargain the best compensation with your insurance company.
Don’t Exaggerate Injuries or Damages
Give factual information about the extent of your injuries and car damage. Giving false information can harm your credibility and affect your chances of getting reasonable compensation.
Conclusion
Each accident claim is unique. Consult your attorney to ensure you follow the proper steps. Follow the do’s and don’ts diligently to position yourself for a fair settlement.
