How to File a Car Accident Claim?
When you are involved in a car accident, it can all be a bit confusing and intimidating. Knowing what to expect when the expected happens can make things less stressful. The first thing you need to do as soon as an accident happens is contact your insurance company as well as the insurance company of the other party if the accident was the other parties fault.
- Ask the other driver involved in the collision for their insurance information if you can; if this is not an option don't worry as this information will be available to you on the accident report that the police drew up. Go to the police station in the town in which your accident took place, and let them know that you need a copy of the police report.
- Take pictures of any damage to your vehicle, it is a good idea to take pictures of the placement of both vehicles before they are moved so there is no questions about fault.
- Contact the insurance company of the at-fault party and let them know that you were involved in an auto accident, and would like to file a claim. Give them any information that they request, and provide them with all documents you have regarding your accident claim.
- Wait for the insurance company to call you with a settlement offer. If you are happy with the offer and feel it is fair, you can accept the offer and they will give you a time to come in and pick up your settlement check. If you are not happy with your offer, move on to step five.
- Inform them that you are not happy with their offer and that you will be sending them a letter of demand.
- Sit down and decide what you think is a fair offer. Write down how you came up with this figure, including these details with your letter of demand.
- Wait for the insurance company to call you with a counteroffer. If you are happy with their counteroffer, accept it and your obtain settlement check. If you are still not happy with their offer it would be in your best interest to contact an attorney experienced in dealing with insurance claims.