Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but the process of filing an auto accident insurance claim can be even more daunting. Before you pick up the phone to call your insurance company, you should be aware of several critical steps you need to take to protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. This guide is designed to arm you with the knowledge you need as you work through that insurance claim. It could make all the difference in how your claim is handled and the outcome you receive.
Why You Need to Be Prepared Before Filing an Auto Accident Insurance Claim
You might think that filing a car insurance claim is as simple as reporting the accident to your insurance company. However, there’s a lot more at stake than just a phone call or filling out a few forms. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, so they have an financial incentive to minimize payouts. This means they might look for ways to under-pay for your car repairs, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other related expenses.
But here’s the thing: If you’re not careful, you could end up with less compensation than you deserve.
That’s why it’s crucial to be fully prepared and aware of the steps of the claims process. This article will walk you through important steps as you file your auto accident insurance claim.
Understanding the Importance of Filing an Auto Accident Insurance Claim
Filing a claim is important because it sets the wheels in motion for you to receive compensation for damages and injuries resulting from the accident. If you don’t file a claim, you could be left paying out of pocket for vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and even legal fees or the adverse party’s damages if the accident leads to a lawsuit.
But there’s more to it. Filing a claim is not just about getting money—it’s about ensuring that your rights are protected. If the other driver was at fault, their insurance should cover your damages. If you were at fault, your insurance can help cover the costs to avoid significant financial strain.
Steps to Take Before Filing Your Auto Accident Insurance Claim
So, what will you need to do as you file that claim? Follow these steps to ensure you’re fully prepared.
1. Gather All Necessary Information
You should call your insurance company to report the claim as soon as you can, but be aware that they are going to ask a lot of questions. Do your best to make sure you have all the relevant information at hand or schedule a second call to provide the following additional information, including:
Police Report: Always file a police report after an accident. The police report provides an official account of what each party says happened and can be crucial in supporting your claim. The official report may not be available right away, so you can ask for the event number to provide to your insurance company and keep track of the matter.
Driver’s Information: Collect the names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved in the accident. Use your phone to take a picture of this information so you don’s lose it.
Vehicle Information: Note down the make, model, license plate number, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the vehicles involved. Use your phone to take a picture of this information so you don’s lose it.
Witness Statements: Get witnesses contact information and a brief statement of what they saw. You can use your phone to take video of the witness statements.
Photos and Videos: Take clear photos and videos of the accident scene, the positions of the cars, skid marks, intersections, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Take photos and video from multiple angles. More video and photos are always better than not having enough.
2. Understand Your Insurance Policy
It’s vital to know what your car insurance policy covers as your claim gets processed. Review your policy to understand your coverage limits, deductibles, and what types of incidents are covered. Most people know whether they have liability only coverage, but it gets confusing when your insurance agent said you have “full coverage”. Does that mean “comprehensive” coverage for property damage regardless of fault? Most folks who think they have everything covered actually don’t have all the coverages they need. Do you have uninsured/under insured coverage? Medical payments coverage? Personal injury protection (PIP)? This knowledge will help you avoid surprises when dealing with the insurance company.
3. Consider the Impact on Your Premiums
Filing a claim can affect your car insurance premiums. In some cases, your rates may increase after an accident, especially if you were at fault. Before filing, weigh the cost of repairs against your deductible and the potential increase in premiums. If the damage is minor, you might decide it’s better to pay for repairs out of pocket to avoid a rate hike.
4. Consult with an Attorney
If you’re unsure about the claims process or feel that the insurance company might not act in your best interest, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury attorney before filing a claim. An attorney can guide you through the process, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and ensure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Just chat with us below.
Why Is It Important to Have Accurate Information About the Policyholder?
When filing an auto accident insurance claim, having accurate information about the policyholder is crucial. The insurance company needs to verify that the person involved in the accident is covered under the policy. If there’s a discrepancy, such as the driver not being the policyholder, it can complicate the claims process.
Can You File a Claim with Partial Information?
You might wonder if you can file a claim if you only have partial information, like the policy number but not the full name of the policyholder. The answer is: it depends. Some insurance companies may proceed with the claim if the information you provide is sufficient to verify the policy, while others might refuse to move forward without complete details.
Take, for example, a case where someone was involved in an accident with a driver who was renting a car from the vehicle’s owner. The claimant had the policy number and the last name of the policyholder but struggled to file the claim because they didn’t have the policyholder’s first name. After numerous attempts, they finally reached a representative who was willing to proceed with the claim, proving that persistence is key.
However, not every situation resolves so easily. Having all the necessary information upfront can save you a lot of time and frustration.
How Can a Discrepancy Between the Driver and the Policyholder Affect Your Claim?
A discrepancy between the driver and the policyholder can significantly impact your claim. If the driver involved in the accident isn’t listed on the policy, the insurance company might refuse to cover the damages. This is why it’s essential to ensure that the person driving the vehicle is authorized under the insurance policy.
Can You Still File a Claim If the Policyholder Is Not the Driver?
In most cases, you can still file a claim if the policyholder is not the driver involved in the accident. However, the insurance company will need to verify that the driver had permission to use the vehicle and is covered under the policy. If the driver wasn’t listed or authorized, the claim could be denied, leaving you to seek compensation through other means, such as your own insurance or legal action.
Challenges You May Face When Filing a Claim
Filing an auto accident insurance claim isn’t always straightforward. You may encounter several challenges, such as:
Delays: Insurance companies may delay processing your claim, especially if there’s any uncertainty or lack of information.
Denials: Your claim could be denied if the insurance company believes you were at fault or if there’s a coverage issue.
Lowball Offers: Even if your claim is approved, the insurance company might offer you less than what you need to cover your damages.
What Should You Do If the Insurance Company Refuses to Proceed with Your Claim?
If the insurance company refuses to proceed with your claim, don’t give up. Here’s what you can do:
Request a Written Explanation: Ask the insurance company to provide a written explanation of why they’re refusing your claim. This can help you understand the issue and provide you with documentation if you need to take further action.
Provide Additional Information: If the refusal is due to missing information, try to gather and submit the necessary details.
Involve Your Insurance: If the at-fault driver’s insurance company won’t cooperate, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance company, even if it means paying a deductible.
Consult with an Attorney: An attorney can review your case and advise you on the best course of action. They can also negotiate with the insurance company or represent you in court if necessary.
Legal Steps You Can Take If Your Claim Is Denied
If your claim is denied, you have legal options to pursue compensation. These include:
Filing an Appeal: Most insurance companies have an appeals process for denied claims. Provide additional evidence or clarification to support your case.
Negotiation: An attorney can help negotiate a settlement with the insurance company. Often, the threat of legal action is enough to prompt the insurer to offer a fair settlement.
Lawsuit: If negotiations fail, you can file a lawsuit against the insurance company. This is typically a last resort, as it can be time-consuming and costly, but it may be necessary to get the compensation you deserve.
Navigating the Claim Process: Tips for Persistence and Success
Navigating the insurance claims process can be challenging, but persistence pays off. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:
Keep Detailed Records: Document every interaction with the insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters.
Follow Up Regularly: Don’t assume the insurance company is handling your claim promptly. Regularly follow up to check on the status and push for a resolution.
Be Persistent: If one representative isn’t helpful, ask to speak with someone else. Sometimes, it just takes finding the right person to get things moving.
Stay Calm and Professional: Keep your interactions with the insurance company calm and professional, even if you’re frustrated. Being respectful can help you get better results.
Alternatives to Filing a Claim Through the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
If you’re having trouble filing a claim through the at-fault driver’s insurance, you have other options:
File with Your Own Insurance: Depending on your coverage, you might be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. This could include collision coverage or underinsured motorist coverage.
Pay Out of Pocket: If the damage is minor and doesn’t justify a claim, you might choose to pay for repairs out of pocket to avoid potential rate hikes.
Seek Legal Advice: If you’re unsure of your options or feel that the insurance company is not treating you fairly, consult with a personal injury attorney. They can help you explore other avenues for compensation, such as filing a lawsuit or negotiating a settlement.
How an Attorney Can Help You Navigate Your Auto Accident Insurance Claim
Filing an auto accident insurance claim can be a daunting process, especially when dealing with uncooperative insurance companies or complex legal issues. An experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how an attorney can assist you at every stage of the process:
Expert Guidance: An attorney provides expert advice on the claims process, helping you navigate legal complexities and avoid common mistakes.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies: They negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
Document Collection and Preparation: Attorneys help gather and organize essential documents, ensuring your claim is well-supported with strong evidence.
Legal Representation: If your claim is denied, an attorney can represent you in court and pursue legal action to fight for your compensation.
Assessment of Damages: They accurately assess all damages, including future expenses and pain and suffering, to ensure you seek appropriate compensation.
Handling Complex Cases: For complex cases, an attorney’s expertise is crucial in navigating disputes over fault or severe injuries.
Maximizing Compensation: Attorneys explore all possible avenues for recovery, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Take Control of Your Auto Accident Insurance Claim with BLG
Filing an auto accident insurance claim doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you’re well-prepared. By gathering all necessary information, understanding your policy, considering the impact on your premiums, and consulting with an attorney, you can navigate the claims process with confidence. If you encounter challenges, remember that persistence and professionalism are your best allies.
In the end, the key to a successful claim is being proactive and informed. Don’t let the insurance company dictate the outcome—take control of your claim and protect your rights every step of the way.
Don’t face the insurance company alone. At BLG, we have the experience and dedication to help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us guide you through the process. Whether you need help filing a claim, negotiating a settlement, or pursuing legal action, our experienced attorneys are here to support you every step of the way.
With knowing all of the above – you are more than welcome to attempt to handle the claim yourself, Here are the most common companies and claims numbers. However if you run into trouble – Give us a call.
| Insurance | Claims Phone Number |
| Allstate Corp. | (800) 255-7828 |
| American Access Casualty Co. | (630) 645-7755 |
| American Family Insurance | (800) 692-6326 |
| American National | (800) 333-2860 |
| Auto-Owners Insurance | (888) 252-4626 |
| Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (AKA Geico) | (855) 453-9675 |
| COUNTRY Financial | (866) 268-6879 |
| CSAA Insurance Exchange (AKA AAA Insurance) | (800) 922-8228 |
| Farmers Insurance | (800) 435-7764 |
| Key Insurance Co. | (866) 867-3636 |
| Liberty Mutual | (833) 218-0219 |
| Loya Insurance | (800) 880-0472 |
| MetLife | (800) 854-6011 |
| Nationwide | (800) 421-3535 |
| Premier Holdings, LLC / Mendota Insurance | (771) 210-4000 |
| Progressive | (888) 671-4405 |
| Sentry | (800) 473-6879 |
| Shelter Insurance | (800) 743-5837 |
| Southern Farm Bureau Casualty | (800) 315-5998 |
| State Farm | (800) 732-5246 |
| The Hartford | (877) 805-9918 |
| Travelers | (800) 252-4633 |
| USAA | (800) 531-8722 |
Turn Your Accident into a Comeback: Act Now for Justice and Compensation
Victim of an accident? You have rights, and we’re here to protect them. Our dedicated team is ready to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait; contact us now for a free consultation. Your road to recovery starts here. Reach out today.
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