Even conscientious drivers can have accidents. After being in one, what should you do first? Be as calm as you can. Although it’s usually not difficult, the post-accident process is rather simple. Maintaining composure will enable you to accurately and completely record the accident. After an accident, dealing with insurance merely adds another layer of complexity. Your insurance provider might not always fully cover the costs of medical bills and repairs. Read on to learn your options after your first car accident.
Total Loss
In other states, the damage need only be larger than a certain percentage of the value of the car. If your vehicle is stolen, it is also considered a total loss, and you would submit a claim to your comprehensive insurance. A car with better worth can, for instance, be one that has undergone prior modifications. In such a case, your insurance provider will reimburse you or your lease provider for the market worth of your vehicle less depreciation. Frequently, this amount deviates from the Kelley Blue Book price.
Lowball Offer
You should check an offer for accuracy when you receive one from your insurance provider. Ensure that it covers your lost pay, suffering, and, if you were harmed, medical expenses. Consider requesting an impartial repair cost estimate if your car was damaged. To provide your insurance provider more details, you could even wish to acquire quotes from many mechanics. You might wish to consult a lawyer if your insurance company refuses to comply and you still think you received a lowball insurance settlement offer.
Betterment Clause
The majority of auto insurance contracts have a betterment clause that imposes a fee on the policyholder if the vehicle’s repairs result in an improvement over its pre-accident condition. You might have to pay a betterment fee, for instance, if a mechanic fixes an old car with new parts, increasing its value.
How Settlement Works
You and your insurance company will agree to the settlement in writing following negotiations. It’s crucial to know what to do with your auto insurance claim check once you receive your settlement minus your deductible. You might need to sign the check over to the technician if your insurance company writes out the payment to both you and the repair shop. If not, your insurer might ask for documentation of the repairs.
Negotiate
Even though auto insurance providers might not make it clear that the offer is renegotiable, you can always present a counteroffer. Remain composed when presenting a counteroffer. Investigate the damages on your own, collecting many repair estimates. In a letter, mention your research.
Be Prepared
When you are ready for an accident, it is simpler to maintain your composure. Your registration, proof of insurance, contact information, and a list of important items you need to remember at the scene of an accident should all be kept in a specific location in your car. If you don’t already have one, think about getting one and storing it in your car. It may be useful in an emergency situation, such as a vehicle crash. If a car accident renders your vehicle incapable of being driven, AAA or roadside help may be able to tow it for less money than you would have to pay to have it hauled on your own. Check your auto insurance policy to verify if you have sufficient coverage for your requirements.
