How to Settle Your Own Insurance Claim

No matter what kind of claim you are trying to settle, the rules are basically the same. This article, however, is about motor vehicle accidents.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phone
• Computer
• Time

1. 
   Relax and Gather Information.

   Your first point of action here is to do nothing.You need time to think about what has happened.Dependent upon your personality type this time to think could range from a few minutes to a few days.
   While you are doing nothing,(so to speak),you should be jotting down notes on what,when,where,how,and why this accident actually happened. Think about wittnesses,road conditions,and any other midigating factors which might be helpfull.

2. 
   Tell your Version,(on paper),and Back it up With Evidence.

   Go to the Police Dept that investigated the accident and pick up a copy of the police report.They usually have those ready after 24-48 hours.
   You will need this document for many reasons,make several copies.This report lists the other driver's information as well as a lot of other valuable facts to the case.

3. 
   This is your story...tell it !

   Now,you have gathered your thoughts and information.You are ready to put together your version of what happened.
   Put together,(on paper), your version of the accident.This should be a very detailed record of the entire event,and should include a copy of the accident report from the police dept. and written notorized statements from your wittnesses,if any.

4. 
   The Adjusters Take Care of the Autos Involved.

   OK,if you have your version of the accident done then gather up all bills and costs associated with the accident,anything and everything
   from Dr.bills,Hospital bills,cabs,rides,time off work,etc etc.Add it all together along with a fair amount for your trouble.....now times that amount by 3 and you have an aprox. settlement amount.This settlement amt. has nothing to do with anyones car or any type of property.This is simply your money for yourself and your personal losses above and beyound the autos involved in the accident.
   The actual insurance adjusters take care of that stuff.

5. 
   Show me the Money !

   Now,you are ready to talk to the other person's Insurance Adjuster.
   Have it all laid out on paper for your reference.Go Forth and ask for your money !

Tips & Warnings

• Always be careful,honest,and wise when dealing with people in this line of business.
• Don't forget this......wittnesses are Golden.