Tips on Filling Out an Auto Insurance Claim 

Understanding your policy and providing accurate, complete information are our tips on filling out an auto insurance claim that can prevent delays or denials. The claims process is similar across insurance providers, but who pays for the damages and whether you are covered varies by circumstance.

Since North Carolina is an at-fault state, the negligent driver (and their insurance provider) is responsible for all damages. That means they will try to exploit any errors or discrepancies in your claim to avoid responsibility. To prevent a dispute from jeopardizing your recovery, follow these tips from our car accident lawyers for when and how to make an insurance claim.

Check your insurance coverage as soon as possible after a car crash. If you don’t have a copy of the policy, see if it is available through the insurer’s app or website. You should have this document in front of you for reference as you report and file the claim. If you don’t understand the fine print, don’t guess. Ask a lawyer for help decoding the policy so you understand what you’re allowed to claim through your insurance and when you must complete this by.

Any accident that results in property damage or injuries should be reported to your insurance provider. Many policies specify qualifying circumstances, time limits, and dollar amounts for submitting a claim. Rear-end crashes are the most common insurance claim according to The Hartford. These can seem minor, but they often result in whiplash, spinal injuries, and other serious consequences that can make recovery challenging and expensive. That’s why it’s smart to report all crashes with injuries (to the police and your insurance provider) to protect yourself if liability disputes or delayed injuries surface later.

Your insurance provider doesn’t need to be your first call after a crash, though. Your first step after an accident should be to seek medical care, and then you can make an insurance claim. The physician’s evaluation will shed light on any injuries or physical repercussions of the crash that should be included in your statement.

Some of the most important tips on filling out an auto insurance claim include writing clearly and legibly, providing accurate details, and ensuring all information is complete. Inaccuracies can cause delays and give an insurance provider an easy out to deny your compensation. If you need insurance claim help, ask an attorney to review complex forms or statements before you submit them.

Keep a communication log that details all conversations and correspondence. If a dispute arises, this record can strengthen your claim and help your attorney respond quickly. Organizing these interactions also provides your lawyer a good recap of the situation, should they need to step in on your behalf. When you speak to an insurance provider, keep these communication tips in mind:

• It’s OK to speak politely but be firm in your statements to avoid misunderstandings.
• Stick to the facts, including the accident time and location. Never provide an adjuster with your opinion on the crash or make statements that can be twisted into apologies.
• Don’t agree to any verbal settlement and ask to see all offers in writing.
• Decline recorded statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

Hastily accepting an offer from an insurer can leave you without adequate personal injury compensation. If you haven’t sought professional insurance claim help, our attorneys recommend you follow this advice before settling.

• Don’t Delay Filing: If the claim is denied or you’re tied up in disputes, North Carolina’s time limits to file a personal injury claim can expire before you realize it.
• Know Your Claim’s Value: Correctly estimate your damages and calculate your losses by carefully tracking medical bills and getting expert opinions on your injury. This is the only way to understand what you’re owed and get the most out of your claim.
• Avoid Social Media: If you haven’t settled yet, avoid oversharing on social media, which can unintentionally jeopardize your claim or give the other party reasons to minimize your injuries.
• Reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI): If your injuries are serious, wait until you’ve reached MMI so your final settlement reflects all compensation you need for recovery.
• Negotiate With a Professional: With an attorney by your side, the insurance company is less likely to try to bully you into accepting a low-ball offer or minimizing your injuries. An attorney can help you calculate your losses adequately to maximize your claim.

Protect your interests and safeguard your rights to compensation by filing a thorough, accurate accident claim. If you’re pressured by the insurer to accept a low offer or are involved in a liability dispute, contact Miller Law Group for help. Our attorneys’ experience can give you the upper hand to prove the circumstances of your accident and have your damages recognized. Contact us today for a free evaluation.