Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful. You have to deal with a damaged car, possible injuries, and of course, those confusing insurance claims. Let’s break down the process to help you handle insurance claims after a car accident. This guide will equip you to confidently move towards a resolution.
Understanding Your Coverage and Responsibilities
Before filing a claim, it’s vital to understand your auto policy. Knowing your coverage and responsibilities makes the process much smoother. This is especially important in Illinois, where state law requires most drivers to have minimum amounts of property damage and bodily injury liability insurance.
These minimums are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $20,000 for property damage. Having this information readily available when you contact your insurance company to file a claim can ensure the process moves quickly and smoothly.
At the Scene of the Accident
The moments after a car accident can feel chaotic. However, amidst the stress, gathering the right information is crucial for potential insurance claims car accident. Start by taking photos of everything you can.
Take pictures of the vehicle damage, the accident scene, road signs, and even weather conditions if they seem relevant. Snap a picture of the other driver’s driver’s license and insurance card. Remain polite, but avoid admitting fault, and be sure to collect contact information from any witnesses.
Reporting the Accident and Filing Your Claim
You must contact your auto insurance company to report the accident and file your claim quickly. The longer you wait, the harder it can be to recall specific details. Having all your information ready, including the police report and contact info for everyone involved, helps you file your claim efficiently.
Illinois has specific requirements about how insurance companies handle claims. Under Illinois law, your insurance company must provide you with any forms you need to file a claim within 15 working days. If a property damage liability claim takes over 60 days to resolve, your insurance company has to provide you with a written explanation for the delay.
This information is outlined in (215 ILCS 5/143.23a) of the state law. Being aware of the time limits associated with claims in your state can help you make sure you receive a timely payout on your claim.
Negotiating a Fair Settlement for Your Claim
Negotiating a fair settlement is often the sticking point after a car accident. Insurance companies want to keep costs low, but you deserve proper compensation for damages, injuries, and other expenses. This can be more complicated when more than one person shares the blame.
Illinois operates under a “comparative negligence” law, (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), when it comes to car accidents where fault is shared. Let’s take a look at the key aspects of the settlement negotiation so you know what to expect.
Don’t Rush Into Acceptance
Insurance companies often try to settle cases quickly. Resist that pressure, especially if you feel the amount doesn’t cover your losses. This is especially true if you haven’t had time to evaluate the full impact of your injuries.
You have the right to seek legal advice from a car accident lawyer before accepting a settlement. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and work to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company. Legal representation can be invaluable during this process.
Keep Meticulous Records
Well-organized documentation can mean the difference between a quick resolution and a frustrating, prolonged negotiation. Track and copy all bills related to medical care, vehicle repairs, and other expenses, like a rental vehicle if you need one.
Document every phone call with the insurance company, including dates, times, who you spoke with, and key details discussed. Keep your medical bills, repair estimates, and any other important documents organized. This will help you stay on top of the process and have the documentation you need readily available.
Understand What You Can Be Compensated For
Many car accident victims are unaware of what they’re eligible to be compensated for when making car insurance claims. Your policy covers vehicle damage and lost belongings, along with medical expenses. But you could be entitled to much more than that.
You might receive payments for lost wages, pain, and suffering. For example, under Illinois law, your auto insurance covers replacing your child safety seats after a crash if they were in use at the time. Understanding the specifics makes negotiating a fair settlement much easier.
Leveraging Available Resources: Don’t Navigate Alone
Insurance claims after a car accident can be stressful and convoluted. The stakes are high, and the jargon involved with claims is daunting. But, you don’t have to go through this alone. Several valuable resources are available to help.
Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced car accident lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. Lawyers know the intricacies of claims processes, laws, and procedures, acting as your advocate to ensure you’re not pressured into an unfair settlement.
Your attorney will take over communications with the insurance adjuster and handle legal documents, helping you reach the best outcome for your case. Having an attorney by your side can remove a lot of the stress of dealing with an insurance claim, especially if fault is disputed.
Free Advice
States often have free resources to help you navigate insurance claims. Check online for resources specific to Illinois or contact the Department of Insurance for guidance.
For instance, the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner in Georgia offers Insurance and Safety Tips, specifically for consumers navigating these issues. Tapping into this free expertise empowers you to feel less alone in this situation.
Insurance Company Resources
Many insurance companies have online guides and tools explaining how to file and track claims. Use these tools, ask specific questions, and seek clarification on your situation. This can help you better understand your coverage limits and what to expect during the claims process.
Why You Should Work With Scholle Law
You should work with Scholle Law if you are injured in an Atlanta car accident. A lawyer has the resources to help you deal with all aspects of a claim and will help you decide if you want to pursue a case. You cannot file a lawsuit later if you choose to take an insurance claim and this is where an insurance lawyer’s expertise can help.