In the aftermath of a car accident – assuming everyone walks away unharmed– most people just want to trade their insurance information with the other party and get back to their lives as quickly as possible. But while you certainly shouldn’t delay filing your accident claim with your insurance company, you also don’t want to rush the process and risk mishandling your claim. The wrong mistake could leave you footing the bill for your own damages and injuries.
According to Forbes, below are the most common mistakes people make with their auto insurance claims and how you can avoid them in the event of your next accident:
1. Failing to gather evidence at the scene
One of the biggest mistakes people make after an accident is failing to collect any evidence that supports their story. Having evidence such as photos or videos of the scene can sometimes mean the difference between your insurance company paying or denying your claim. After an accident, it’s vital to photograph or record the damage to your vehicle and anything that relates to the accident, such as traffic signs, skid marks, road debris or the weather conditions.
2. Not seeking a medical evaluation
After opening a claim, it’s not unusual for your insurance adjuster to follow up with you to ask how you’re doing. Though you may feel fine, it’s a good idea not to say so until you have received clearance from your doctor. Some injuries that occur after car accidents can be delayed or appear less severe than they are. In case you need to report additional damage later, avoid giving a firm answer on your health status until you know for sure.
3. Offering too much commentary
When it comes to making your accident claim, it’s best to stick to the facts. Suppose you bog down your insurance adjuster with too many unnecessary details or your opinions of the other party’s mistakes. In that case, it could delay the claims process or even result in a denial if you’re not careful. Answer their questions truthfully and concisely to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Fender benders are already stressful enough. By avoiding these common insurance claim errors, you can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.