How to Expense Lost Time From an Insurance Claim

Motor vehicle accidents are hard, especially if you have to take time off from your job to take care of things. You can show your time and effort as it deals directly with the accident and insurance matters and learn how you can apply them to your situation.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Track the amount of time you spend on paperwork and getting estimates. Keep a running total and multiply this by your hourly work rate at the end of the process.

2. Wait for the insurance company's decision. They will probably turn it down the first time. Follow up and argue the validity of the point, checking back with them periodically.

3. Answer the insurance company representative's questions honestly, when asked. Do not take offense; they are just doing their job.

4. Point out that you deserve payment for the time it takes to deal with the accident. A good time for this is when they are asking questions. Point out that they work to handle the same facts you have been gathering.

5. Understand that your lost time from work is a normal expense listing in a case like this. Detail time lost and why it was lost. Keep detail records and be ready to show any proof you have.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many things you can count your time toward, including researching auto repair shops, getting an estimate and travel time. Also, remember to bring up costs for gas, childcare, rental car and phone charges.
• Be honest in figuring your time. If it does not seem appropriate, you must prove it.
• Not all states are open to this type of discussion.