Filing a car insurance claim is never easy. In fact, it can be stressful and frustrating if you have no experience regarding this process. These auto insurance claim tips will help you get the insurance payment that you deserve.
1. Keep Receipts
Keep all the receipts of the purchases you have made for your car. If your vehicle or any part of it has been stolen, the insurance claims adjuster will require you to present a document that will justify the cost of the item and proof of ownership.
2. Contact Insurance Company Immediately
When an accident happens, contact the insurance company immediately. Most insurance companies have 24-hour claim filing services that you can get in touch with by phone. Be sure to have your insurance ID card with you so you can readily provide your insurance number.
3. Get Multiple Quotes
If your vehicle has been damaged and you are making a claim to support the restoration and repair of your car, it would be wise to get multiple quotes from at least three car repair shops. The adjuster will make his/her own estimate on the damages and more often than not, the adjuster’s estimate will be a lot lower than what you deem is fair. By having multiple quotes from different car repair shops, you will be able to justify your claim.
4. Research and Negotiate
Be persistent when making a claim that you know you deserve. Exhaust all efforts in researching about your claim and contacting the insurance company regularly about it. You have to be proactive with your claim or else the adjuster will not get in touch with you and will simply send you a check in the mail, usually with an amount that is lower than you expect or deserve.
5. Don’t Sign Just Yet
Do not sign the release of liability form until the insurance company has settled your claim completely. Some insurance adjusters will deceive you in signing this form and if you do, it means you agree that the insurance company no longer has any obligations or liabilities on your claim.
6. Get Legal Help
Filing for auto insurance claim is not something that you will enjoy. But still, you need to arm yourself with the right information so you can fight for a fair claim more efficiently. If you find the entire process daunting or you feel that you are not getting a fair insurance settlement, be sure to consult a lawyer for legal help.
