Filing an insurance claim can be a hectic process. To make matters worse, any mistakes made while claiming can result in a rejection of the claim. Therefore, in the aftermath of an accident, it is advisable to take steps that will make the filing of the claim much easier. Luckily there are a number of things that you can do that will achieve just that.
Contact the Police
When you have an official police report, this can make it easier for you to file your claim. A police report is an official record of events that is much harder to dispute compared to the account of a random witness who just happened to be passing by.
Additionally, having the police there will ensure that you are safe. Some people can become very aggressive in the aftermath of the accident. Having the police there can help to keep things under control.
File Your Accident Report with the DMV
There are states where you're also required to report accidents to the DMV in addition to contacting the police and the insurance company. The making of these reports is restricted to specific cases that vary depending on the state in which the accident occurred. For example, in New York, you have to make a report with the DMV in case the property damage for any individual exceeds $1000. Most states will also require a DMV report if there is an injury or fatality due to the accident.
Collect the Information the Insurance Company Will Need About the Accident
Collect as much information at the scene of the accident as possible. Ideally, you should have a car accident form for the state you're currently in. These forms vary from state to state. The insurance will need information such as the name and address of the driver, their contact information, their auto insurance company and policy number, etc. In addition to this, you should also collect details about the accident such as the time, location, direction both cars were traveling in, etc.
Take Photos of the Accident Scene
It's much harder for the other party or an insurance company to dispute your claim if there is photographic evidence. Details that can be disputed include the direction the vehicle was traveling in, the extent of the damage, and even the injuries suffered. Take photos or have someone else do it. If you can't take photos, you can even make a sketch of what you see.
Contact an insurance agency for more information on car insurance policy services.
Share27 September 2018
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