Car accidents not only are scary experiences but may also result in severe injuries and cause the victims to suffer both physically and financially.
It is at such moments when individuals need to comprehend how to approach insurance claims.
If you are a driver, a passenger, or a pedestrian involved in an auto accident, it is crucial to understand your rights and the legal process to claim auto accident injuries. Remember that you should always take help of a reputable car accident lawyer in Houston, TX to get maximum compensation for your losses.
What Are The Basic Steps Included in Insurance Claims for Car Accidents?
- Reporting the Accident:
The first thing you should do after the accident is to contact your insurance company and notify it of the accident. Many insurance policies demand immediate notification of accidents, so do not wait to contact an insurer.
- Gathering Evidence:
To increase your chances of winning the insurance claim, you should collect as much evidence as you can. This may include pictures of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and the injuries you suffered, along with testimonies and police documents.
- Seeking Medical Attention:
Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show any symptoms immediately after the accident, and for this reason, it is important to seek medical advice after a car accident.
There are cases where symptoms may not be visible, and if you delay treatment, the condition may deteriorate.
- Filing Your Claim:
After collecting evidence and getting medical attention, you are left with the task of claiming from your insurer.
This usually involves filling out a claim form given by your insurer and sending it back with any relevant supporting documents.
- Assessing Liability:
In most cases, the question of fault in an automobile accident is clear-cut.
However, in some circumstances, liability could be contested, hence causing delays or outright denial of insurance claims.
The insurance company will look into the accident and establish whether you are at fault or not depending on the evidence that they may find. Moreover, you also need to have a reputable car accident lawyer from Mokaram Law Firm by your side.
- Negotiating a Settlement:
Once liability has been determined, your insurance company will evaluate your losses and provide you with a settlement.
To make sure that you are getting a maximum settlement for the losses, you should take the help of a good car accident lawyer.
This may include medical costs, loss of property, lost income, and pain and suffering.
What are the challenges in the process of claiming insurance?
Disputed Liability:
Perhaps one of the key issues in car accident insurance claims is the establishment of fault.
Some insurance may try to prove that it was not their client who was at fault for the accident and this may cause delays or denial of the claims.
A car accident lawyer can assist in collecting evidence like eyewitness accounts, pictures, and even professional testimony to determine who is at fault for the accident.
Pre-existing Injuries:
Insurance companies may also attempt to deny the extent of your injuries by saying they existed before the accident or they were not caused by the accident.
One should always try to get medical attention as soon as possible after the car accident and document all of one’s injuries and medical treatment in order to prove to the insurance company that the injuries were not pre-existing.
Lowball Settlement Offers:
Some insurance companies may try to get away with giving lowball settlement offers in order to avoid paying too much.
You should thoroughly examine any settlement offer and think about the number of your injuries and the total amount of your losses, like medical bills, vehicle repair, lost income, and suffering.
Do not be afraid to bargain with the insurance company or even sue them if you feel that you are not being compensated enough.
Statute of Limitations:
Every state has defined a period of time within which a personal injury suit after a car accident can be filed in court, known as the statute of limitation. There is a time limit for suing the negligent party – you should pursue your claim on time.
Tips You Should Follow During The Insurance Claims Process
Be Honest and Accurate:
When dealing with your insurance company, make sure that you disclose all relevant information about the accident and injuries honestly and precisely. It is also important to avoid exaggerating and fabricating information as this can damage your credibility.
Know Your Coverage:
It is important to read and understand the insurance policy and know the coverage limits and any exceptions to the coverage. This will help you understand what benefits you are eligible for and prevent any unexpected outcomes during the claims process.