An auto collision insurance claim typically commences with a collision. If you are involved in a car crash, there are some very imperative things you should do at the accident scene to the extent you can. At the first chance, you should report the crash with your insurance company and begin the procedure of filing a claim. After you have submitted your claim, an employee will either call, write or email you with regard to your claim. She will then look at your insurance contract to determine the types of coverage you have, deductibles, and any coverage limits that may affect your claim.
If your claim is uncomplicated, the representative may have you get a quote for repairs and then send you a payout. You will have to fill out some documents, but you may not have to visit the adjuster face to face. If your claim is more difficult, then the negotiation process will take more time.
In relatively complicated injury collision claims, representatives typically must do some investigation in order to sufficiently establish the insurance company’s liability. The agent will comb through your agreement and possibly contact witnesses to the crash, the other party to the collision, look at the police report if there is one, take pictures of the damages and scene of the crash and generally look into your medical expenses by sending out requests to your medical providers for information regarding your treatment. If you are seeking to have medical bills paid for, the agent will send you a medical authorization form for the release of your medical history.
Once the employee of the insurance company has investigated your claim and looked at your policy, he or she will likely send you a settlement offer. The settlement offer will tell you what the insurance company is willing to pay on your claim. This starting offer is likely on the low side. After all, the adjuster’s purpose is to save his or her employer money. But the employee of the insurance company also wants to close a claim and thus is usually allowed a settlement range that offers room for discussion.
If you are certain about how much you think your claim is worth, you can preempt the adjuster’s settlement offer with your own settlement letter. Your letter would outline fault, damages and ask for a specific amount to settle your claim.
If you’ve already received an opening offer from the adjuster, keep in mind that first offers for settlement are almost always on the low side. Then, unless you’re willing to take that first offer without an discussion, you will ultimately need to negotiate with the insurance company for a higher figure.
If your insurance claim is turned down in whole or in part, there could be many legitimate and reasonable reasons. Most have to do with limits in your policy. You can check the rejection letter against your coverage to see if the denial seems appropriate or not. If you still think your claim was unfairly turned down, don’t wait too long to take action. If you sit on your claim for too long, you may lose the right to sue in court to get your recovery. Discuss your scenario with an auto injury lawyer who will be able to help you.
If you’ve been the victim of a serious car accident in Baltimore, you need the advice of an experienced Baltimore injury lawyer. Talk to a local Baltimore injury lawyer about your options.