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 Payment
of claims is the reason that insurance exists, yet policyholders
often perceive that insurance companies resist paying
legitimate claims make the claims process unduly difficult.
Both insurance companies and policyholders have contractual
obligations that must be understood and performed to
ensure the timely and satisfactory resolution of claims.
Understanding what to do when you have an auto insurance
claim can help you avoid some of the headaches, problems
and red tape involved in tackling the process. It can
also help you get better value for your insurance dollars.
If your car is involved in an accident, if it is damaged
by fire, flood or vandalism, or if it is stolen, put
your insurance to work for you by following these steps
in filing your claim:
Phone your insurance agent or a local company
representative. Do it as soon as possible even
if you're far from home and even if someone else caused
the accident. Ask your agent how to proceed and what
forms or documents will be needed to support your claim.
Your company may require a "proof of loss"
form, as well as documents relating to your claim, such
as medical and auto repair bills and a copy of the police
report.
Questions you should ask your agent or company
representative:
- Am I covered for these losses?
- What is my deductible?
- How long will it take to process my claim?
- Does my policy have a time limit on filing a claim?
- Is there a time limit during which claims must
be resolved after they are filed?
- What are those time limits?
Supply the information your insurer needs.
Cooperate with your insurance company in its
investigation, settlement or defense of any claim, and
turn over to the company immediately copies of any legal
papers you receive in connection with your loss. Your
insurer will represent you if a claim is brought against
you and defend you if you are sued as the result of
an accident.
Keep records of your expenses. Expenses
you incur as a result of an automobile accident may
be reimbursed under your policy. Remember, for example,
that your no-fault insurer usually will pay your medical
and hospital expenses, and possibly such other costs
as lost wages and at least part of your costs if you
have to hire a temporary housekeeper.
Keep copies of your paper work when filing
a car insurance claim. Store copies of all
paper work in your own files. You may need to refer
to it later.
Talk things over with your agent an adjuster if you
are dissatisfied with the settlement offer.
Check your policy to see what settlement steps it outlines.
After an accident, DO NOT:
- Move any injured persons.
- Apologize for the accident.
- Tell any party how much insurance you carry.
- Accept any money. If you do, you forfeit your right
to file a claim
- Agree to forget about the accident
Later on, the other person may file a lawsuit against
you.
A FREE auto insurance quote is available with no
obligation!
Click here and get a free quote today and see
the savings!
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