The stress of a car accident, the resulting injuries, and car damage is a lot to handle. Unfortunately, the insurance claims process can add to the confusion and stress. Especially if it is your first time bringing a car insurance claim, you probably don’t know how insurance providers handle claims. Thankfully, an Orange County Car Accident Attorney can walk you through the claim process and ensure you take each step with precision. Also, they can give you an idea of what to expect when you file a claim.
What to Do After a Crash
After a car accident, you must notify your insurance provider right away. You must give them the basics without talking about fault or particular details until an attorney can speak for you. Also, you must collect information such as the name of the other driver, their contact information, and insurance information. Other information to get include the names of the police officers who responded to the accident, names of witnesses, and photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
If the other driver was to blame for the accident, their insurer may also contact you. Be careful about what to say when a representative reaches out to you. This person will find ways to minimize liability in the crash and pay the least amount of money possible.
Fault Determination
The other driver’s insurance company will assign an insurance adjuster to handle your claim. The adjuster will assess the accident while you are getting treatment and having your car repaired. Either insurer won’t cover such expenses right away. The companies will determine fault first and negotiate which company will reimburse the expenses incurred.
Following an accident investigation, the insurance company will assign every party a fault percentage. In Georgia, your percentage of fault must be less than 50% to recover damages. Let us say you are found to be 20% at fault for causing the crash. If the value of your claim is $100, 000, you will only get $80, 000 out of that amount. A car accident attorney can help you advocate for a lower fault percentage. They can help you collect evidence that shows the fault of the other driver and negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance adjuster. During each stage of the claims process, your attorney will protect your rights and ensure you get treated fairly. They will ensure you don’t make statements or do something that can be used against your claim.
