What To Do When You Have To File a Claim

In America there are an estimated 220 million vehicles traveling the nation’s roads and highways and therefore the likelihood that you will be involved in an accident is very probable. While being in an accident may be traumatizing it is critical that you remain focused on details concerning, the how, the what and who was responsible for what happened. Examine yourself and possible passengers for injuries then look around for street identification signs, as well as possible witnesses.

Document The Accident Scene

In an accident, it is important that you get outside of the vehicle to check on your vehicle damage and damage or injury to the other driver. You will need to document the accident scene and vehicle damage, which will be necessary for both the police report and the insurance company claim to be filed. Take photos of the accident damage with your cell phone camera. Photograph the damage to both cars, the license plates, and obtain the names and contact information of any possible witnesses. In addition you will need to exchange insurance contact information with the other driver as well as driver’s license numbers and address and phone numbers. Lastly, if there is no life threatening injury do not call 911.

Types of Claims

Although insurance laws differ from state to state, make certain that you file an insurance claim with your insurance company, or, if the other driver is at fault, with his or her insurance company. If the other vehicle driver was at fault, you may still opt to file with your company because your company is legally bound to the policy contract coverage provisions for damage, reimbursement and possible medical injury and recovery claim coverage, where applicable. If you choose to file a claim with your insurance company it is called a “first-party” claim and if you choose to file with the other driver’s company it is regarded as a “third-party” claim.

Provide Documented Proof For Claim

The documentation necessary in order to file an insurance accident claim is generally standard in every state. A copy of the police report, automobile repair bills and medical bills as well as documents that may pertain to loss wages, and sworn witness statements will be required. In addition, you may need to also supply dated photographs of the damage to the vehicle, and show proof if necessary, of any attempt to protect the vehicle from any further damage, if left at the scene of the accident.

How Much Time To File A Claim

Although most drivers that have been involved in a car accident may be inclined to file an accident claim sooner rather than later, there are some who may decide to wait. A driver who decides to wait too late to file an accident claim, may be legally barred from filing, depending upon the driver’s policy as well as state law. Many states have statutes of limitation covering when a driver can legally file accident claims. The filing time limits can range from two to four years. Be sure to check with your insurance policy agent to make certain what the deadline is for filing an accident claim.

Filing a claim need not be intimidating, nor burdensome. With proper knowledge, a clear plan of action and follow through, resolution to your claim will be settled in a short amount of time.

F.P. Clark is a claims consultant from Great Britain. He suggests creating a photo archive to document your property in case of a loss. This is also a way to make certain that your home contents insurance coverage accurately covers any possible losses.