You buy car insurance with the hope that you never need to make a claim. However, if you’re involved in an accident, one of the first things you’ll do is contact your insurance company.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that your insurance agent will do whatever they can to make you happy. Even though you have a policy, which acts as a contract between you and your insurance company, your agent will always do what’s best for them.
With this in mind, there are four things you should never do when making a car insurance claim:
- Give a statement: Your agent may ask you to make a recorded or written statement early in the process. You shouldn’t do this until you understand your coverage and legal rights. No matter what your agent says, you’re under no obligation to provide a statement. Politely turn down their request.
- Put pen to paper: If your agent asks you to sign something, be sure that you know exactly what it is. For example, if they ask you to sign a waiver or release, think twice about doing so. It could take away some of your legal rights.
- Accept compensation: Your goal of filing a car insurance claim is to receive compensation as outlined by your policy. However, if you do so too soon, you may leave money on the table. Insurance companies make low ball offers with the hopes that you’ll jump at the opportunity to finalize your claim.
- Go at it alone: When making a car insurance claim, you’re on one side of the aisle and your agent is on the other. You’re at a disadvantage because they have more knowledge of the industry and your policy than you. You can protect your legal rights by consulting with an experienced attorney.
Avoiding these car insurance claim mistakes is easier said than done. After all, you’ll have a lot on your mind in the aftermath of an accident, especially one in which you were injured.
Understanding your policy and legal rights will allow you to approach and move through the process with confidence.