Car insurance claims, even the simplest of them, can be tricky. While a complicated accident involving more than one car usually has witnesses and a police record, a single car incident might have neither. So you need to take steps to prove the accident to the insurance company.
If your car was involved in a single car accident such as being backed into a tree, you need to call your insurance company immediately and inform them of your intention to file a claim. Next take a photo of the accident site and keep it as a record and proof of the accident. Make sure that the damage sustained by the car is visible in the photos you take. Now you can remove your car from the accident site and take it home.
Insurance Adjuster
The insurance adjuster will contact you and ask you a few simple questions about the accident such as the visibility while the accident happened and who the driver was. Provide accurate answers to these questions and fill in the claims form. In the form describe the damage to the vehicle as completely as possible. This is because your insurance payment depends on this description.
Mechanic’s Estimate
In case you suspect damage to the engine, get a mechanic to examine the car and attach their report as well to the claims form.
Once you have submitted the filled in form, follow up regularly with the insurance company until you receive your insurance check. If you feel that the amount awarded is too low – if, for instance, it will not cover the repair costs, ask for a review as soon as possible. Ensure that your appeal reaches the insurance company well within the deadline for the appeal.
Appeal
At the appeal, explain clearly why you feel that you should be awarded more money in damages. Provide sufficient proof such as repair cost estimates. In most cases, the appeals process will ensure that you are awarded sufficient money to repair your car.
By taking along the estimate for repairs provided by your regular mechanic as well as a second mechanic, you should be able to convince the appeals officer of the genuineness of your case.
Getting Legal Help
In case even this does not work, approach a lawyer who specializes in accident claims to argue your case on your behalf. A trained lawyer will be better able to present your case in court against the insurance company.
