Reader’s Question:

Can you give me some tips on the claim process after getting involved in a car accident? What vehicle insurance claims am I entitled to when accidents cannot be prevented?

Brookes

Marietta, GA

I believe that this could get serious. Making a vehicle insurance claim proves to be most difficult for some individuals when it concerns insurance. Making claims should not be that hard, you just have to follow the process. Having a little patience and perseverance makes it easy enough to pull it off.

Before any of this happens, make sure that you have reviewed and browsed through all the details specified in the contract. Make sure that you are covered under these circumstances. Knowing the right coverage that suits your need would eventually prove useful in the future. You should be assertive in tailoring these needs according to your preference.

When faced with this situation, the next step would be identifying and knowing all the coverage you are entitled to – this way you would know which part of your vehicle insurance policy concerning the incident entitles you for claims when such situation arises. You might want to ask for rental coverage, so as not to keep you laid back. This is to prevent any set backs, especially if you are using your vehicle for important purposes such as for business or professional matters while waiting for repairs or replacement.

If you do not know what vehicle insurance claims you are entitled to, you could check your State’s Department of Insurance for list of claims an insured is entitled after a serious accident. Most states regulate insurance companies to some degree in order to protect the interest of its citizens. You can do this by visiting their website online and then using any information that would helpful in making your claims.

Next step would be identifying your car’s worth just before the accident. Compare it with the actual value after the incident and consult a professional, ask whether this rate set by your adjustor was a fair deal. Consult experts that know how to deal with vehicle insurance claims. Your lawyer, for instance, would be the greatest help with your legal concerns.

Upon evaluation and agreement of payment and policy terms, decide whether you want your vehicle back or move on for a replacement. After you have known the actual value of your vehicle prior to total loss, you can now decide on whether to go for repairs or just move on to get a replacement. You can decide after you have assessed the damage and the cost for repairs.