Get The Most Out Of Your Car Insurance Claim

If you are planning to make a car insurance claim, you need to know all the tricks and tips to maximize your settlement. Otherwise, you may not even receive the full value of your damages. Here are some of the tips that will help you get the most out of your claim.

Account for All the Applicable Coverage

Ensure that you include every possible damage or loss that your auto insurance policy covers in your claim. For example, if your car was damaged and you had to tow it to the mechanic ship, check if your policy covers towing or roadside assistance. Or maybe you have to use a rental car when your car is being repaired; in such a case, your coverage may reimburse you for the rental car charges. The best thing to do here is to list all your losses and run them by your insurance agent to help you identify the ones you can claim.

Don't Estimate Damages

It is dangerous to estimate damages to the insurance agent; you should only give them accurate figures. For example, don't tell the adjuster you think a damaged panel will cost $250 if you aren't sure of the figure. Wait until you can get the actual figure from the mechanic and tell the adjuster about it. Otherwise, you may end up with a loss if you give the adjuster low estimates and the repair shop ends up charging you for more.

Keep Records and Document Everything

Although it's advisable to claim all damages associated with the accident, don't forget that you will only be compensated for the ones you can prove. For example, you don't expect the insurance company to reimburse you for towing charges if your car looks drivable. You will need to prove that your car was actually damaged to the point where it had to be towed to be compensated for towing charges. This means you should document everything and keep the receipts to help you prove your claims.

Know the Pre-Accident Value of Your Car

In case your car is damaged beyond repair, it will be written off, and you will be compensated for the value of the car just before the accident. You need to research well and know your car's value to allow you to negotiate with the adjuster. Otherwise, you will just have to accept what the adjuster offers, and it may be low.

Hopefully, you will receive the full value of your claim without any hitches. Talk to your insurance agent to help you if you are having problems with your claim. For more information, contact a company like Ahlquist Insurance.