Car accident insurance claims always cause some amount of confusion. No one wants to file a claim because it’s complicated, time consuming and if you’ve just had an accident, you have too much on your plate as is. It’s worse if you have an accident in a foreign country such as Mexico. If you are driving your own car you might have had the foresight to purchase insurance coverage that addresses travel to foreign countries. If you have no such insurance or if you are driving a rental, there are still some options available to you.
After the Accident
Car accidents are traumatic and after the accident you may not be thinking clearly but you need to at least try to remember some basic procedures that will make the process a little easier. Since you are in a foreign country, you do not want to presume to do anything unless otherwise instructed. Request an accident report at the scene and gather the contact information from the other driver. Make sure to keep this information and the accident report with you when you go back home as you will need to file a claim with your own company.
Making the Claim
It’s important to file an insurance claim at the time of the accident so that you can be justly and fairly compensated for your losses. You may not get made whole until you get home, but at least the ball will be rolling and that will certainly give you some peace of mind. Follow all instructions set forth by the insurance company and claims adjustor. Be savvy in what information you offer and what information you keep. Be careful of scammers and never give money or make an agreement with someone without making sure that they are represented by the insurance companies.
Lawyers and You
A lawyer will make the entire process easier. Not only will they understand Mexican law concerning accidents and insurance claims but it will feel good to have someone on your side; someone you can rely on. The lawyer will be instrumental in helping you receive the proper compensation to adequately cover any and all losses. The lawyer will know all the ins and outs of insurance law and can expedite the claim process. After all, you have a life to live and getting the insurance claim processed and completed is the first step to getting back to it.
