Insurance companies are there to provide coverage when you have a valid claim. Approaching them means you can begin the process of seeking compensation for your losses. However, interacting with them is often difficult.
Many people find dealing with insurance companies far more stressful than dealing with the injuries themselves. This can lead people to give up on their claims, but it’s important not to. You should assert your rights to fair compensation and take steps to protect those rights. Here’s how to do just that.
Report the accident right away
Tell your insurance company about the accident as soon as you can. This is often called “filing a claim.” It’s important to give basic but detailed facts: when, where, and how it happened. This starts the official claims process.
You should also keep a detailed record of every communication with the insurance company. If you sent an email or letter, keep a copy for yourself. This is important for your records.
Keep records of everything related to the incident
Save all papers related to the accident. This includes:
- Police reports
- Medical bills and doctor’s notes
- Car repair bills or estimates
- Any letters or emails from the insurance company
- Photos of the damage or injuries
These types of documentation are important evidence. They help show what happened and the extent of the damage.
Don’t accept a quick settlement offer
The insurance company might offer you money soon after the accident. This is called a “settlement offer.” You should not rush to accept it. You might need more money later for medical care or other costs you don’t know about yet.
Consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer first before you agree to anything. They can help you understand what a fair settlement is. Before you start the legal consultation, organize all your records related to the accident so your attorney can review them.