5 Steps of a Car Wreck Settlement
Like anything in life, there is a process to reaching a settlement after an accident. The car wreck insurance process can vary some from state to state, but there are general steps to take in reaching a settlement that apply in most states. If you have been involved in an accident, you might not know how to go about getting what is owed to you for your damages. Here are five steps that should be taken so your settlement can be reached.
Car Wreck Insurance Process
STEP 1 – REPORT THE ACCIDENT
First things first: call your auto insurance company and the insurance company of the other individual involved in the accident. The claim can be filed under your insurance or under the other driver’s liability insurance.
STEP 2 – GATHER EVIDENCE
Next, gather evidence of the accident. Take photos, get phone numbers of witnesses, get the police accident report. All of this will help you in advancing your claim.
STEP 3 – GET REPAIR ESTIMATES
Next, assuming you do not have major medical issues to resolve, get an estimate on the damages to your vehicle. Take your car to a qualified repair expert and make sure they give you estimates using factory replacement parts. Get a copy of this estimate (make sure it is as detailed as possible) for your insurance company.
STEP 4 – CONTACT THE CLAIMS ADJUSTER
Contact the claims adjuster and discuss the damages with them. Once you’ve sent your estimate to the insurance company, their adjuster will examine the information for accuracy. You should contact them to set the date and time for this appointment.
STEP 5 – SIGNING THE PROPERTY DAMAGE RELEASE FORM
The last step before your settlement is signing a property damage release form. Once you and the insurance company have agreed upon the settlement amount, you will be sent this form to sign. Once the form is signed, you cannot discuss any further settlement or damage amounts, so make sure your estimate is thorough.
The process can vary in length, especially if you are handling it yourself. If you have concerns about the process at all, an attorney can help you with your car wreck settlement. If you have any questions, contact the Law Offices of Pat Maloney at (210) 226-8888
Pat Maloney, Jr. is a skilled San Antonio personal injury lawyer who has acted as lead counsel and co-counsel in many multi-million dollar verdicts throughout Texas. Pat Maloney represents people injured in car accidents, truck accidents, construction accidents and more. He is well known for his expertise in representing victims of serious personal injuries and has participated as a lecturer in the field of personal injury litigation. He has been named as one of the “Best Lawyers in America” Reference Book every year for the last five years.