No matter which kind of accident you're in, there is without doubt you will eventually be forced to deal with your own insurance company, along with the agents from the businesses of another parties active in the accident. Handling the insurance claim process together with the specific insurance adjusters can be quite an undertaking. With this being the case, any auto accident lawyer can tell you that there are several standard do's and don'ts to bear in mind when it comes to insurance claims.
First, the do's
Do call your insurance company as soon as possible following the accident or injury (unless you have been seriously injured in a way that this will not be possible).
Do take the time to learn and comprehend your insurance policy in order that you'll have an expression of what coverage your policy provides in order that you can make the mandatory claims. In the event that you don't understand something in your policy, St. Louis Insurance Claims Lawyer can assist you to with deciphering the information.
Do confirm whether or not you have multiple insurance policy which may provide coverage for this accident or injury. A lot of individuals have multiple insurance policies under which they might be eligible to file valid claims.
Do write down the insurance details of most other persons who were area of the accident.
Do get as numerous details as you can about the accident, to incorporate photos of the damaged vehicles and any injuries incurred. You should also have the names and variety of any witnesses to the accident who might be able to assist you to prove your claim.
Do keep written documentation of most discussions and dealings with the insurance agents, along with some other people active in the claims process.
Do keep all receipts and bills for all claim-related expenses, to incorporate bills for almost any repair work done on the damaged vehicle, and any medical bills related to the treating the injuries which can be covered under your insurance policy.
Do be forthright and truthful with insurance investigators which means your claim isn't denied because of fraud.
Now, the don'ts
Don't ever admit to any fault or liability on your own part. Just state the facts without expressing any opinion. Liability is afflicted with many different circumstances thus, it's not your job to admit fault. The insurance investigators will compile all the mandatory facts and evidence and then make the determination regarding liability.
Don't provide insurance officers with anything in writing (regardless of whether it's your own or another party's agent), if you do not fully understand your policy or claim.
Don't let any time limitations to file your claim expire. All insurance companies require you to file a state within a quantity of time following the accident or injury so ensure that you don't miss this time around limitation, otherwise your claim might be considered invalid.
Don't take everything that the agent informs you as the final word, especially when it comes to the valuation of your claim or perhaps a settlement. Insurance companies typically low-ball estimates, and you shouldn't take their estimates at face value without having your auto accident lawyer execute a valuation of their own.
Don't sign any releases or waivers of any kind, and if you're unsure about that which you are being asked to sign, consult together with your auto accident lawyer for assistance.
Don't take any check as a full and final payment if you are totally sure that it's fair compensation for the losses. Your auto accident lawyer can further advise you when you yourself have any questions.