How to Settle a Claim With an Auto Insurance Company
If you're involved in an auto accident, filing a claim with your insurance provider as soon as possible can make receiving a settlement less complicated. The more details you provide to the insurance adjuster, the faster your claim will be processed. Include in your demand letter everything you remember about the accident, photos if possible, witness accounts and contact information, a copy of the police report and filing number, contact information of all parties involved and the amount you owe in medical bills.
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Things You'll Need
- Copy of police report
- Contact and insurance information of those involved in accident
- Witness accounts
- Copies of medical records
- Pictures of accident
- Demand letter
Instructions
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Ask for the names, phone numbers, addresses and insurance information of all parties involved in the car accident as soon as possible after the accident.
Take photos of the accident if possible using your cellphone or disposable camera. (Keep a disposable camera in your car in the event of an accident.)
Obtain contact information and statements of any witnesses.
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Ask for the police report filing number before leaving the scene of the accident. Request a copy of the report as soon as it is available.
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Send a demand letter to your insurance company explaining the accident (include as much detail about the accident as possible).
Include a copy of the police report and filing number, copies of medical reports if you were taken to the hospital, list of pain medications for injuries, number of days you were out of work, and if you needed to seek physical therapy.
Include witness accounts and contact information, photos and other information you've gathered about your claim.
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Speak to an insurance adjuster about your claim. He may have to inspect the car in order to complete the claim paperwork.
Carefully consider the settlement you're offered before accepting the insurance provider's offer. Ask for a larger amount if the settlement does not cover all medical costs (in-patient and out-patient costs) and damage to your car.
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Accept or reject the settlement. If you accept the settlement, you should receive payment within a few weeks. If you reject the settlement, hire an attorney or continue to work with the insurance adjuster until a fair settlement is reached.
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Tips & Warnings
Provide as many details as possible when filing an auto insurance claim. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after the accident and send a demand letter soon after receiving a copy of the police report.
Work with insurance adjusters to get a fair settlement. Never ask for an unrealistic amount as you will not receive it.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit John Byer/sxc.hu
