Similar to a driving license, an auto insurance is also an essential document for your vehicular safety. This insurance proves especially useful while making a claim for accidents in which your car is damaged.
An auto insurance claim is filed when you request your designated insurance company to compensate for the damages sustained after a motor accident. However, before submitting the application, it is necessary to determine the nature of the claim and many other minute details associated with the incident. Consulting an experienced lawyer can make this process easier for you.
Here’s a closer look at the auto insurance claim process:
When to File an Auto Insurance Claim?
An auto insurance claim needs to be filed as soon as the accident occurs. Your insurance company provides you the benefits of compensations which you are eligible for by utilising your insurance policy. You need to file an auto insurance claim under the following conditions:
- If your vehicle is stolen
- If your vehicle is vandalized
- If your vehicle is damaged by an accident or by non-accidental events like fire or severe weather conditions
Information Required to File a Claim
In order to file a comprehensive claim, it is crucial to provide your insurance company with the following information:
- The complete name of the insured person
- The start and end date of the insured person’s policy along with his policy number
- The exact date and time of the accident
- Details like the name, address, and contact of the driver, passenger as well the witness, if any
- The driver’s license number as well the license plate number of the vehicle
Steps for Filing an Auto Insurance Claim
- File a Police Report
A vehicular mishap is a traumatic experience for the victim. Hence, you may not be in the position to note down all the details of the incident. It is always recommended to contact a lawyer immediately after the accident to avoid this issue. Your lawyer can help you recollect all the details of the incident accurately and file a comprehensive police report.
- Collect Relevant Information
If your car is hit by another vehicle, collect the details of the other vehicle including its license number as well the driver’s information. This can help you to identify whether to make a claim on your cover or on the other driver’s insurance coverage.
- Determine the Nature of Claim
This is a vital step of the auto insurance claim process. The nature of the claim decides which type of coverage you are eligible for. If there is a third party at fault in the scenario, raise a claim on their policy. If you are responsible for the accident, raise a claim on your insurance policy. Your insurance lawyer can help you determine the nature of your claim accurately and receive a fair compensation.
- Contact the Insurance Company
Notify the insurance company immediately after the accident. They will take the auto insurance claim process further and provide information regarding the required documents.
Should you Hire an Attorney?
A car accident is a traumatic experience which puts a strain on a victim’s health as well as his finances. Consulting a lawyer to file an auto insurance claim not only ensures its successful submission but also makes sure the victim receive a fair settlement.
Make sure you contact a lawyer who specializes in insurance law to navigate you through this tricky process.