How to File an Injury Claim With an Insurance Company
The process of filing an injury claim includes accurate reporting of accident details and the proper completion and assembly of documentation. The following are some general steps to follow when filing an injury claim with an insurance company.
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Instructions
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At the scene of the accident, contact the police. The responding police officer will ask for each driver's version and then summarize the versions into a written report. The report will also include the vehicle points of impact, severity of damage, and citations, if any. It is an important report for verification of your injury claim. If requested or needed, emergency personnel are dispatched to assist the injured victim.
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Report your injury claim to your insurance company. Typically, accidents are required to be reported within 24 hours. Contact a first report representative at your insurance company. This representative will ask you questions about how the accident occurred, who was involved, and the nature of your injuries. If your insurance policy includes coverage for medical bills, sometimes referred to as "MP" or "PIP", this coverage pays for medical treatment, up to a limit of coverage. A claim number is issued and an adjuster is assigned to handle the processing. Generally, your medical providers will work directly with your insurance company for payment of the bills.
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If you are not liable for the accident and you desire to file a bodily injury claim, report the claim to the other driver's insurance company. A bodily injury claim is a liability claim for pain and suffering. Pain and suffering in a nutshell is measured by the extent and severity of pain one feels during the recovery process. Contact a first report representative who will most likely ask similar questions about the nature of the accident. A claim number is issued, and a bodily injury adjuster is assigned to handle the processing.
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Establish your claim for pain and suffering and any medical bills not covered by insurance as well as any loss of income during your recovery period. Keep track of all visits with your doctors, including the emergency room to physical therapy to specialists. Assemble all supporting medical reports and notes. If there are any co-pays or out-of-network providers, the amount of these bills can be submitted as part of your claim. If you have lost earnings, secure written documentation from your employer to substantiate your time out of work and from a treating physician to support your period of disability.
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The insurance company adjuster for the other driver completes an evaluation of your claim. A settlement offer may be made to resolve your bodily injury claim. If you disagree with the insurance company's position regarding settlement, there are time limitations to conclude your claim according to statutes of limitations. If you need guidance during this process, you have the option to retain an attorney.
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