If you are involved in an auto accident, it is important to file a claim. This can save you money and make the process easier.
You may also be able to avoid higher insurance rates. This can be done by understanding the impact that the claim will have on your policy and how you can protect your wallet.
1. Review Your Policy
Your car insurance policy is a contract between you and your insurer, so it’s important to read and understand what it says. This includes knowing what coverages are included in your policy and what you’re obligated to pay out of pocket when filing a claim.
You also want to determine how much you can afford to pay as a deductible. This varies from person to person, and is usually based on your personal financial situation and the value of your vehicle.
It is also important to review your policy every year. This will ensure that your policy is up to date and provides you with the coverages you need during key life moments.
2. Know Your Deductible
A deductible is the amount of money you must pay toward your insurance claim before your insurer covers the rest. This amount varies by coverage and is established in your policy’s declaration page.
Generally, the higher your deductible, the lower your car insurance premiums will be. But you need to choose the deductible amount that works best for your financial situation.
The deductible you select should be affordable to you, considering how often you drive and your driving history. It should also not impact your lifestyle or finances significantly.
3. Take Pictures
When it comes to a car insurance claim, the right information can make all the difference. So, take pictures of your vehicle, the other vehicles and any property damage.
Your smartphone is a great place to start, especially if it has a camera onboard. Also, get the other driver’s contact info, vehicle make and model, insurance company and policy number and any other information you can find.
Next, get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses to the accident. This is particularly helpful if any of them are willing to stick around to provide their information and testimony.
4. Contact Your Insurer
After a car accident, it is important to report the crash to your insurance company. This is not only an obligation you have to abide by under your policy, but it can also help you if the other driver’s insurer denies your claim or their insurance was invalid at the time of the incident.
If you do not call your insurer to notify them of an accident within a certain period of time, your insurer may have the right to deny your claim and refuse to provide you with insurance coverage. In that case, you should contact an attorney promptly to discuss your rights.
5. Contact Your Attorney
Car Insurance is a contract between you and your insurer that helps pay for car repairs, medical bills and other expenses related to a car accident. You can also choose to purchase additional coverages that can help protect you against certain kinds of accidents or injuries.
If you are involved in a serious accident, your lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim. They will help you get the compensation that you deserve so that you can recover from your losses.
In some cases, an insurance company may try to deny your claim or offer a settlement that is far lower than what you deserve. In these cases, it is essential to contact your attorney right away so that you can take immediate action to get the compensation you need and deserve.
