The significance of having a car insurance policy is well-understood by everyone. The internet has indeed made our lives simpler. Nonetheless, even the most diligent are susceptible to errors when shopping online. Mistakes can range from ordering an incorrect item to inadequate product analysis, highlighting the potential pitfalls of online shopping.
The same applies to the purchase of insurance, which has been simplified with the advent of online policy buying and renewal. However, avoid certain errors when buying or renewing our car insurance policies online. Here are some mistakes that should be avoided when acquiring car insurance online.
Poor Documentation
Maintaining thorough records is crucial should a loss occur, as insurance companies necessitate comprehensive details to process a claim. The specifics your insurer will need are outlined in the policy terms.
For instance, the ISO commercial property form mandates you to supply exhaustive inventories of damaged and undamaged properties, including quantities, values, costs, and the claimed loss amount. It also obligates you to present proof of loss. Your written records can be supported with photographs or video footage.
Ensure you keep track of all interactions with your insurer regarding your claim. Maintain a record of the names and contact numbers of individuals you converse with, along with the date and time of each communication. If you send physical documents to your insurer via mail, ensure you keep duplicates for your personal records.
Accepting Responsibility too Early
Even if you believe you’re at fault, refrain from admitting this to the other driver involved in the accident. Even if they accept blame at the scene, remember that they might alter their account when they inform their car insurance company. It’s best to remain silent until you consult with a law enforcement officer or an insurance representative.
Think about purchasing a dashboard camera for your vehicle. These gadgets can be instrumental in establishing who is at fault following a collision. They offer a transparent, unbiased perspective of the actual events. Additionally, collect contact details of any potential witnesses. Should the other party admit responsibility, make sure to document their admission.
Issuing a Declaration Without Consulting an Attorney
Many individuals in an accident mistakenly think they must immediately provide a statement about the event to their insurance adjuster. However, the reality often is that it’s generally more beneficial to consult with Attorney Hilda Sibrian before making any official declarations about what transpired.
Proceeding with a statement without prior legal consultation could potentially affect the amount of compensation you’re eligible to receive. The danger lies in the fact that insurance adjusters might exploit your written statement to your disadvantage. They could, for instance, pose carefully crafted questions that enable them to reject your claim later, based on your answers.
Agreeing to Quick Settlement
If you’ve sustained severe injuries from a car accident, you are likely facing substantial medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs. Insurance companies know your stress and strategically propose a settlement amount for your car accident claim that appears reasonable enough for you to agree to. However, they are often offering less than what you truly deserve.
Once you endorse the check, they are no longer liable and can close your case. Remember that following a serious injury, you might need more than just medical treatment – physical, vocational, or occupational rehabilitation could be necessary.
Avoid Allowing the Insurance Company to Delay the Process
Certain insurance firms might assert that they are handling your claim, but in truth, they may just be buying time in the hope that you’ll abandon the process. They may claim to require more details or receipts, or state that your claim is still being evaluated.
Their ultimate goal is to make you surrender your claim or become so impatient that you accept their less-than-fair settlement proposal. These delaying tactics are a sign of bad faith. Having a lawyer on your side can help, as they can vigorously negotiate with the insurance firm to resolve the claim.
Endnote
With your newfound knowledge of the pitfalls to sidestep when making your claim, adhere to the established protocol for a seamless and stress-free claim-filing process. Familiarize yourself with what your policy covers and does not cover to prevent any unwelcome surprises during claims. Additionally, renew your policy before its expiration date to prevent any claim rejections.
