Filing A Car Accident Insurance Claim

After any car accident in which your car is damaged you will more than likely want to report the incident to your insurance company even if you are not at fault. However, remember the incident will be recorded and will stay on your record.  This may not look good later on down the road when you wish to change insurance companies. On the other hand, if the damage is extensive you will want your auto insurance company to know that you were in an accident. It would be beneficial to you if you spoke to a car accident attorney before you contact your insurance company.  It is important to contact a car accident attorney to learn your rights.

At the accident, do not talk with anyone concerning the car accident especially the other parties involved in the crash. You may accidentally say something that might sound as if you are admitting fault for the accident. Only talk with the police officer and ask questions to witnesses.

Before reporting the accident to your insurance company, you should ensure that a police report is filed and that you have information on any witnesses and the other driver’s insurance information. You should also ensure that none of the individuals in your car and the other car were injured. Stay calm and get as many details about the car accident as you can.

Your insurance company can handle the claim on your behalf even if you were not at fault. When in doubt of the proper thing to do, you should contact an car accident attorney that will be able to read over your insurance policy and help you know your liability or what you will be entitled to under your policy.

Once you fill an insurance claim, do not be surprised if you receive a call from the other insurance company. Do not speak with the other driver’s insurance carrier without an attorney's advise. Ask that they call your insurance carrier or attorney; this is the only way to ensure your rights are protected.

Be prepared to give an account of the accident and ensure you have the police report to back up your story of the incident. If you need additional legal advice, we have a local car accident attorney to help.