Filing Claims Do’s and Don’ts

Filing Claims Do’s and Don’ts

Being involved in an accident can be a very trying experience for those involved. However, it is extremely important that you follow some guidelines to ensure that you get your claim filed in the fastest way possible and put yourself in legal jeopardy.

In this article, we’ll be taking a look what to do AND what not to do when filing an auto insurance claim.

Things to Do When Filing Your Claim

• Call Your Agent First: It is in your best interest to contact your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident or injured. Unless you are preoccupied with serious injuries and contacting emergency services, your insurance agent or advisor is the first person to call in case of an accident or injury. They can help quickly shorten the time-frame for you receiving the benefits of a claim.
• Understand Your Policy: It may seem like common sense, but be sure to look into the fine print of your policy before an accident occurs. By taking time to read your insurance policy and understand it, you can be aware of what is covered (and to what extent) in your policy to make the necessary claims.
• Get the Details: Try to get as many details of the accident possible. This includes pictures of the vehicles, injuries sustained, witness testimonies (with contact information). Make sure you have a police report that can determine who was at-fault. If the other driver is not injured and not hostile, try to exchange insurance information to resolve matters quickly. Also, as a general rule, make sure to get as many things in writing, like dealings with the other person’s insurance company and everyone involved in the claims process.
• Save Your Bills: In addition to keep written document, keep all of the receipts and bills for any expenses related to your insurance claim, including repair work, rental car receipts, medical bills, etc.
• Tell the Truth: When dealing with the insurance investigators, be sure to tell the truth. If it is found that you are exaggerating or trying to commit fraudulent claims, you can hinder your ability to get a fair claim, not to mention facing criminal charges.

Things to NOT Do When Filing Your Claim

• Do Not Willingly Admit Fault: This is an extremely important point to make! If you admit fault, you lose a large ability to recoup from your accident and may jeopardize your future rights to insurance claims. With all dealings while filing your claim, do not admit that you were guilty. The only person who can determine the fault is the police officer on scene, which in turn is investigated by the insurers. An error in your perception may account for who really was the cause of the accident and you may lose out remuneration that you were entitled to.
• Don’t Giveaway Anything in Writing: While it is a good idea to document the facts and situations in writing, giving away testimony and other information to the other parties’ insurance interests may hinder your claims. The only time when to do so is when instructed by your insurance agent or advisor when you are fully aware of how this will benefit your claim
• Exceeding Time Limits: Be aware that you have time limits for filing your insurance claims before it expires. Every insurer requires you to file an insurance claim within a certain time frame to be eligible for benefits. If you put off this time limit (within reason; serious injury may exclude you until you recover), your claim may be rendered invalid.

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As you can see, there are many things to be aware of when an accident occurs—especially beforehand. To know to which extent your deserve compensation for your injuries and damages, an insurance specialist can be the answer to your concerns. Contact the insurance advisors at RiskBlock today to finding solutions to ensure that you and your family are protected.