You’re driving serenely on your side of the road and adhering to the prescribed speed limit. Another car suddenly jumps the red light and hits you right in the bonnet. Or, you’re getting late for your daughter’s birthday and ram into an accompanying vehicle. Whatever the case, after taking proper steps to mitigate the overwhelm of the auto accident, you need to know the intricacies involved in making a personal injury claim.
Things you Require for a Claim
Along with the date, time, and location of the accident, you’ll also be needing your insurance policy number. Follow this through with a detailed description of the crash and make sure you get the insurance and contact info of the other party involved. Another crucial requirement is the name of the police department involved as well as the police report number.
Filing a Claim
In accidents where the at-fault driver accepts responsibility, you don’t need to call your insurance company. However, some states are considered no-fault, which means your insurance covers you up and the other party’s insurance covers them. So, you need to first check if it’s a no-fault state you’re in.
If you’re in such a state, you’ll have to call up your insurance firm and they’ll walk you through the process. However, it’s important not to blindly trust the company as they’ll give you the least amount of compensation possible.
You also need to call a lawyer, especially when it’s a major collision or the other driver doesn’t have insurance. A legal professional is acquainted with the pitfalls of the process and knows how to secure the maximum compensation possible.
How Quick Should I File a Claim?
You want the claims process rolling as soon as possible. So, a claim should be filed promptly. Some insurance companies only compensate during the year the accident took place. Thereby, it’s in your best interests to not put it off.
The Process
Your insurance company will assign a claims officer to your case. They will review the police report and also corroborate your side of the story. They’ll interview witnesses and the other party involved.
They’ll take stock of your car damages and injury expenses. In major cases, a visit to the scene of collision will also take place. This is all done to provide an estimate of the claim involved.
Why you Need Legal Help?
Help is needed to outmaneuver your insurance provider in paying you the compensation you deserve. Your insurance company may shortchange you at any step of the process, especially when a huge claim is involved. That’s why you need an auto accident lawyer who ensures you aren’t manipulated in any way.
