Car Accident Claims Process

Some basic information about the insurance claims process is outlined below:

You must report the accident to your insurance company — Your first priority should be to obtain medical care. Having done that, you need to file a claim with your insurance company.

Assignment of representative — The insurance company will assign a representative who will handle your claim. His or her first task will be to determine if the car accident is covered under the terms of your policy. If it is, the insurance company will then investigate the accident to determine the extent of its liability.

Collection of medical bills and other expenses — You should keep copies of all medical bills related to the accident as well as other expenses, such as costs for vehicle repair or a rental car. You should also note the income you have lost as a result of the accident.

Assignment of an adjuster — The adjuster will collect vehicle damage estimates, medical bills, lost wages and other losses that are covered by your policy.

Claim payout — The insurance company will inform you of the amount it will pay on your claim.

At this point, things can get sticky. Your insurance company is obligated to pay only those losses that are covered by your policy, up to the limits stated in your policy. But in fact, your losses may far exceed the amount of your insurance coverage. The insurance company may try to “lowball” the compensation it pays, or there may be additional sources of compensation. You may need the services of an attorney in order to obtain additional compensation from the party or parties responsible for the accident.

In a free consultation, a lawyer at Reed & Terry Law Firm, can review your case. He can determine whether the compensation offered is fair and whether you may be entitled to additional compensation.