If you got into an accident it’s important to know exactly what should be done next. It’s inevitable you will have to deal with your insurance provider at some point. Effective to-and-fro communication between you and your insurance provider will determine your motor insurance claim. Here are some of the do’s and don’ts every motor insurance holder must follow.
The Do’s of Car Insurance Claims
Contact your insurance provider ASAP
If you happen to be in an accident, inform your insurance agent immediately. Your insurance provider is supposed to know every detail to qualify your claim and the sooner it is the better.
Get contact information of individuals involved
It is common for both drivers to be a bit shaken up and confused after an accident. The first step after an accident is to report it to the police. After inspection of the vehicle, motorist are given either red sheet (responsible for the accident) or green (affected motorist) which has details of the accident and contact details of both parties.
Review your insurance policy
Go through your motor insurance policy once again to make sure you are covered for your accident. You should be aware of what will be covered in your motor insurance policy and what will be excluded. This will help you during negotiations if required.
Take pictures of the damage
If possible, it will be great if you can take pictures of your vehicle or bodily injury at the scene. It can work as an additional evidence and making your claim stronger.
[Related: Your motor insurance claim got rejected? Know your policy | 6 motor insurance covers for your luxury car]
The Don’ts of Car Insurance Claims
Don’t reach to a final conclusion
When you are in an accident do not reach to a final conclusion that it was your mistake. Provide required information to the Police and do not speculate. Let the police make the decision by assessing the situation. You never know when it can work in your benefit.
Don’t accept your claim pay out immediately
Insurance companies will provide you with a minimum pay out for your claim. Your claim may be worth a lot more than the quoted amount. At this point, make sure of what is included in your insurance cover and your legal rights.
Don’t sign any unknown document
When your insurance company provides you a settlement cheque, don’t sign it unless you have estimated the damage yourself and taking into consideration your insurance covers. You need to make sure that you are getting a fair settlement for the damages incurred.
Don’t try to delay the process
If you are thinking that delaying your insurance processes will help you in anyway, be careful as it may easily backfire. Be aware of deadlines and do not avoid any meetings or calls from your agent/insurance company in order to get the most out of your claim.
