Filing a car accident claim shortly after your accident is critical for getting the compensation you deserve. However, you need to make sure you’re not making some common mistakes that would prevent you from getting an acceptable amount for the injuries and damages incurred. Consulting with a car accident attorney can increase your chances of having your claim approved the first time, and prevent you from making some costly mistakes.
Here are five mistakes you need to avoid when filing a car accident claim:
1. Admitting liability or claiming the accident wasn’t your fault. Remember that it’s the insurance company’s job to determine who was responsible for the accident and what the appropriate compensation should be. Don’t report anything but the facts about the accident so that the insurance company can make the appropriate decision based on their research. All you can do is provide them with proof of damages and injuries, all insurance policy information, information about the police report, and then wait for their decision.
2. Accepting the settlement amount right away. Remember you don’t have to accept the settlement amount the insurance company offers. In some cases, the insurance company isn’t compensating you fairly for your losses and you’ll need the help of car accident lawyer to dispute the offer. Wait until you have a professional opinion on whether you’re being adequately compensated for all losses.
3. Signing a waiver. Car insurance companies may pressure you to sign a waiver that simply states you you’re willing to accept a check for a given amount and don’t want to take the issue to court. Make sure you’re aware of what this step means and don’t be afraid to talk to an attorney for help.
4. Filing out the claim form inaccurately. Filing out your claim form inaccurately could mean a holdup in the processing of your claim and even a denial. Take the time to fill out your insurance claim as accurately as possible and provide very specific details about the accident scene and the incident itself. Remember that the insurance company will be matching this up to the official police report at a later date and will investigate everything you include in this form.
5. Filing too late. Every insurance company has a different time limit for filing a claim after an accident. If you don’t take the lead on filing a claim shortly after the accident, you could end up missing the deadline and forfeit all rights to receive compensation. Review your insurance policy right after the incident and make sure you get the claim form and supporting documents over to the insurance company within a week or so after you report it. Ask your insurance agent what the claims window is when you call in the incident so you have everything in well before the deadline.
Sources:
Michigan Auto law – 17 Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Car Accident Lawsuit
Six Mistakes You Should Avoid after a Car Accident
United Policyholders – Car Accident Claim Tips: A Practical Guide to Auto Claims