Motor vehicle accidents cause half a million injuries each year. They are entitled to compensation. Many of these people do not know their rights or how to claim this compensation. These people are often left out of the money they deserve for their pain and suffering.
After an accident, the steps for filing a claim are immediate. The policyholder should immediately inform their agent about an accident. Most insurance offices offer a 24-hour claim assistant or emergency call help lines. Staff will help you with your claim by taking down details such as the accident date, time, and the extent of any injuries or damage.
The representative will take the information and verify that the policy covers the driver and vehicle. They will also provide guidance and advice on how to file a claim. The claims agent will verify that both the driver and vehicle were authorized under the policy. The claims agent will also check to make sure that no details about the accident are excluded from coverage for repairs.
This will be checked by the agent to ensure that all damages caused by an accident are covered. The agent will also check for comprehensive coverage if the policyholder sustains damage to their vehicle. If the insured had only Third Party or fire and theft coverage, the claim would not include the vehicle’s damage. Final step is to ensure that the policyholder keeps current on premium payments and that they are fully paid. In addition, the insurer will verify that all information regarding the accident has been accurate and complete.
These claims can also be made over the telephone by giving a verbal explanation. This reduces the need to file written claims. However, this can be costly for both the policyholder as well as the insurer. However, written claims are necessary in some cases such as property damage or serious injury.
An estimate of the damage caused by approved garages will be required by insurance companies. Approved garages will speed up the process by reducing paperwork and are more cost-effective and efficient for the insurer. The insurer will typically cover removal and relocation costs if the car becomes immobile because of damage.
An engineer from the insurance firm and an approved garage complete the estimate to confirm that the damage matches the claim. If the claim is consistent with the damage, the engineer will approve the repairs. Insurers often offer hire cars, which can reduce inconvenience for the insured.
An approved garage is best for the insured. Because the garage is not within his normal area, approval may take longer. A more detailed estimate may also be needed to authorize the repairs.
Garages will be reimbursed by insurance companies once repairs have been completed. This amount includes the labor and repairs, less any excess that the policyholder has paid. The claim is closed and the insured gets the vehicle back.
An investigator may be called in to investigate the accident and any injuries or significant property damage. This involves gathering evidence and taking statements from witnesses to the accident.
The insurer will offer the policyholder a lump sum equal to the value of the vehicle as it was at the time of the accident. Glass’s Guide is used to calculate the value. This guide takes into account the vehicle’s age, condition, and purchase price. In estimating the car’s market value, engineers will also consider vehicle modifications.
The final claim payment is made between the insured and the insurer. When all payments have been made and all relevant information about the accident has been collected, the claim can be resolved.