Auto insurance claims are a crucial aspect of the insurance process for drivers who have encountered a car accident. An auto insurance claim is a request made by the policyholder to the insurance company to pay for the expenses incurred due to an accident or any other covered event.
Navigating through the complex realm of insurance claims in Minnesota can be challenging, but a personal injury attorney can help fight for the compensation that you’re entitled to receive. To find a skilled lawyer, reach out to 1-800-Injured, a lawyer and medical directory that can help you locate legal representation nearby.
What to Do After a Car Accident
The first step for a driver involved in an accident in Minnesota is to ensure the safety of everyone involved and receive treatment for any injuries sustained. After securing safety, the driver should exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident. It’s imperative to take photos of the accident scene, including damages to the cars involved. Such evidence could be valuable in the claim process.
Following an accident, the driver must promptly notify their insurance company to initiate the claims process. The insurance company will designate an adjuster to examine the accident and evaluate the damages. The adjuster may also gather information from eyewitnesses and gather other pertinent data.
After the adjuster completes their investigation, they will furnish an appraisal of the damages to the insurance company. The insurance company will then review the claim and determine whether to finance the damages, taking into account policy limitations.
If the other driver was responsible for the accident, their insurance company may be obligated to cover the damages. In such instances, the driver should contact the other driver’s insurance company to file a claim.
How Can an Attorney Help?
A lawyer can be a great asset in an auto insurance claim, especially if there are disputes or complications involved. Here are a few ways a lawyer can assist with an auto insurance claim:
Legal Guidance: A lawyer can provide legal guidance to the policyholder about their rights and the insurance company’s obligations. They can also instruct the policyholder on what to say or do when communicating with the insurance company so they do not inadvertently say something that may hurt their claim.
Investigation: A lawyer can conduct an investigation into the accident to collect evidence that supports the policyholder’s claim. This may include obtaining police reports, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts.
Negotiation: The lawyer can negotiate on behalf of the policyholder with the insurance company to secure a reasonable settlement. They can help assess the value of the claim and negotiate for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Litigation: In case of claim denial or inadequate settlement, the lawyer can file a lawsuit against the insurance company. They can represent the policyholder in court and strive to obtain a favorable ruling. It’s important to note that most personal injury cases are resolved outside of court, and trials are rare.
A personal injury lawyer can provide valuable assistance in an auto insurance claim by safeguarding the policyholder’s rights, advocating for fair compensation, and pursuing legal action if necessary.
What Happens If I’m At Fault?
It’s important to note that filing an auto insurance claim may impact the driver’s future insurance premiums. If the driver is found to be at fault for the accident, their insurance premiums may increase. However, if the driver was not at fault, their premiums may not be affected.
The point of insurance is to protect all parties involved in an accident. So long as you didn’t commit any grossly negligent action or willfully cause the accident, your insurance company should pay for any damages the other party sustained.
Contact 1-800-Injured to Find an Attorney Near You
An auto insurance claim is a plea made by the policyholder to their insurance company to finance the cost of damages caused by an accident or another covered event. It is recommended that drivers reach out to their insurance company immediately after an accident to initiate the claims process and exchange information with the other involved driver. The insurance company will conduct an investigation into the claim and determine whether to cover the cost of damages.
If you suspect that the insurance company is mistreating you, it’s advisable to contact a personal injury attorney in Minnesota. They can explain your legal options and represent you in any legal proceedings. For assistance in locating an attorney in your area, contact 1-800-Injured.