Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Car Accident Insurance Claim

Most car accident claims are settled with insurance companies, but that doesn’t mean the process is simple. Many people make mistakes that can delay their claim or reduce their compensation. Knowing what to avoid can help you get a fair settlement without unnecessary stress.

Here are some typical mistakes:

Not Calling the Police

Failing to call the police after an accident can have serious financial and legal consequences. An official police report is very important, even if you’re involved in a minor accident. It helps determine what happened and protect your legal rights. 

If you’re not sure whether or not to call the police after a car accident, then it’s better to err on the safe side and make the call anyway.

Not Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Failing to inform your insurance company about a car accident can have very serious consequences: you risk losing your financial protection and legal rights. It’s also important to note that insurance companies often have time limits, and failing to meet those deadlines can reduce your chances of compensation. As such, you should contact your insurer immediately if you’re involved in an accident, even if it seems minor.

Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Some injuries might not show symptoms immediately after the accident but get worse with time. When you postpone medical treatment, it not only makes your condition worse but also gives insurance companies a reason to challenge your claim.

For instance, if you don’t seek medical attention and experience back pain days after the accident, the insurance adjuster may argue that your injury did not result from the crash. Medical records are important because they link your injuries directly to the accident. 

If you don’t have medical records, then it can be difficult to prove the extent of your damage. Therefore, when seeking medical attention after an accident, you want to ensure that your healthcare provider documents all diagnoses and treatments that are related to the accident.

Not Gathering Enough Evidence

You should gather enough evidence at the accident scene, as it will help you build a strong claims case. You need important details like witness statements and photos of the accident scene to establish liability. 

It’s important to take pictures and videos of the accident scene, as well as the damages and injuries sustained. You can seek the help of an experienced attorney who will guide you on how to collect and preserve evidence effectively.

Not Exchanging Information

Another critical mistake you can make after an accident is failing to exchange contact information with other drivers involved in the accident. Without the other driver’s details, your insurance company may delay the claims process or even deny you the compensation. 

In some places, leaving the scene without sharing information may be considered a hit-and-run, which can result in fines, license suspension, or legal penalties. Therefore, take your time and exchange information at the accident scene to protect your rights.

Not Negotiating for a Fair Settlement

Insurance companies may offer you a quick settlement, but the amount is often much lower than what you actually deserve. Without the help of an experienced car accident attorney, you risk accepting a settlement that won’t fully cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering. A qualified lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get compensated fairly.

Not Documenting Expenses and Losses

Failing to record your expenses and losses is a big mistake, as it can reduce the compensation you receive. Vehicle repair costs are not the only expense covered by car accident claims. You can also get compensated for other accident-related damages, such as medical bills and lost wages.

For instance, you can get compensated for lost wages if you’re injured in an accident and are unable to go to work. To claim lost wages, you must provide proof, which may become difficult without pay stub documentation or written confirmation from your employer.

You should also keep all receipts related to medical treatments and prescriptions and track transportation costs to and from doctor’s appointments. Organize your receipts and financial documents, and maintain records in either a notebook or digital spreadsheet. This ensures that you have enough evidence to support your claim.

Avoiding Mistakes Leads to a Smoother Claim Process

Filing a car accident insurance claim can be stressful. However, you can make the process much easier by avoiding the mistakes discussed in this article. Be proactive, stay organized, and don’t rush into accepting an offer. If necessary, consult a professional to help you get the compensation you deserve.