Initially the method for filing claims wasn't meant to be tedious and complicated. Making a claim, estimating the loss, issuing the check of reimbursement and that's it. But in reality ambiguous insurance policies, complex laws with various lap-holes in them enable insurance companies avoid some responsibilities committed before their customers. Thus taking a good accident attorney is really worth considering, as he/she will support you through legal minefields and act as your personal shield against deceptive insurance agents-if you'll have to deal with some. As a result you'll procure the best financial compensation for every single inconvenience caused by the accident.
But before referring to a certain lawyer, there are several things that everyone should be aware of. Take into mind that you're entitled to file an action against the driver who has caused the accident. In order to make him/her pay for your personal injuries, damages to the vehicle, moral distresses, lost wages, etc. you must be able to prove that your injuries are the direct result of the other side's negligent or imprudent behavior on the road. Following tips would act as a valuable aid in the process of asserting your innocence and other driver's culpability consequently: take notes of the road conditions, location, weather, time, visible damages to your vehicle and other property, etc. Ask for a copy of the police report as well. Having a disposable camera for such cases would be a great asset. After dealing with all the abovementioned, you'll have to contact your insurance company. The sooner you do it the better, because some insurers have certain deadlines for notifying them and the failure in complying with these limits will definitely result in annulling the insurance policy.
As for the stolen cars, the process of filing an action in this case is much longer, as considerable amount of time is assigned to the police to trace down the stolen vehicle. You should keep in constant contact with the police and immediately inform both the positive and negative results of the investigation to your insurance company.
And the last thing worth considering is to double-check your policy regarding the rental coverage. If you are not the one to be accused for the accident, you will be authorized to get a rental car paid by the insurer of the other driver while your car is being fixed. Rental reimbursement coverage is advisable if the mishap was your own fault.
Thus, taking all the abovementioned tips into account will significantly elevate the tiresome process of dealing with insurance companies.
Wawanesa provides comprehensive materials on auto insurance.
David Hunter is the owner of a small insurance agency in California. He also writes articles about insurance.
