Auto Accident

Common Questions about Calling Your Insurance Company after an Accident

An accident between Audi and Toyota taxi.

Even the most careful driver can run into a car accident, and seeing as road mishaps can happen to anyone, anywhere, and anytime, having insurance should give you peace of mind by ensuring you have the proper coverage for the costly aftermath. With that in mind, knowing your policy and what is covered must be important if you want to get the compensation you deserve when making a claim.

If you're involved in an accident, your insurance policy may cover:

  • Medical expenses
  • Property damage
  • Loss of income
  • Pain and suffering

Keep in mind that there may be limits to how much your insurer will pay out, so it's important to read through your policy carefully. 

What Should You Do after a Car Accident?

If you're involved in a car accident, it's important to contact your insurer as soon as you're able. They will likely want to send an investigator to the scene of the accident, so you must have all of the relevant information handy. Be sure to gather any witnesses' names and contact information, take pictures of the scene and damage done to both cars involved, and keep any receipts for medical or repair expenses.

As accidents aren't usually anticipated, you may wonder what questions you need to ask about your insurance company. By knowing the right questions to ask, you can ensure that you get the help you need and that your claim is processed as quickly as possible. Here are some key questions to ask: 

Important Questions You May Have When Calling Your Insurance Company after a Car Accident

1. Do I Have to Call My Insurance Company If the Accident Isn't My Fault?

There would be no legal requirement to contact your insurance company after a car accident, even if the accident weren't your fault. However, it is always a good idea to notify your insurer immediately after an accident. Notifying your insurer can help ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to, and it can also help protect you from potential liability in the event of a lawsuit. 

Other reasons it's worth calling your insurance company include the following:

You May Need to Insure a New Vehicle after It's Totaled

If you are in an accident and your car is totaled, you may need to purchase a new vehicle. Depending on the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim for the value of your totaled car. Filing a claim can help you cover the cost of purchasing a new car. Consequently, you also need to contact your insurance company regarding their policy and whether it will still offer the same level of coverage on a new or rebuilt vehicle. 

Some Insurance Companies Require You to Inform Them Immediately after an Accident 

Not all insurance companies require you to contact them after an accident, but some do. If your insurance company is one of those that do require you to speak with them after an accident, it is important to do so as soon as possible. Failure to notify your insurer may result in a suspension of your policy or even cancellation. 

Additionally, notifying your insurance company can help protect you from potential liability if you are involved in a lawsuit relating to the accident. Your insurer may be able to provide you with legal representation or offer other assistance in defending yourself against any claims made against you.

2. Will My Insurance Premiums Increase If I Report a No-Fault Accident?

It is difficult to say definitively whether or not your insurance premiums will increase if you report a no-fault accident. Every insurance company is different, and the increase, if any, may depend on the specifics of your policy.  However, it is generally a good idea to notify your insurer of any accident, even if it was not your fault. 

Notifying your insurer can help ensure that you receive the benefits you are entitled to and that you are protected from potential liability in case of a lawsuit. Regardless, it is important to review your policy terms and contact your insurer to find out how filing a claim will impact your premiums.

3. Do I Report to the Insurance Company about the Car Accident or to the Other Driver? 

You need to get compensation from the other driver's insurance policy, particularly if he or she is at fault, but first, you will need to gather enough evidence to prove the other party's negligence. You will likely need their contact information and information about their policy limits and coverage type. 

You should also collect information from any witnesses at the scene of the accident and take photos of damage sustained in the crash. This information can help support your claim later on if it becomes necessary to file a lawsuit.

4. Why Do I Need an Attorney before Talking to My Insurance Company after an Accident?

An insurance company may seem like a helpful ally after an accident, but it is important to remember that the company is first and foremost interested in protecting its own interests. This means that the insurer may try to get you to agree to a settlement that is less than what you deserve or attempt to get you to say something that could hurt your case.

A qualified attorney can help you negotiate with the insurance company, protect your rights, and also help you build a strong case if you decide to file a lawsuit. Additionally, an attorney can help negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company on your behalf. If the insurance company tries to lowball you or offer you a settlement far below what you deserve, your attorney can help fight for a fair settlement.

5. What Do I Do If My Insurance Company Offers a Settlement before I Have the Chance to Talk to My Lawyer?

If your insurance company offers you a settlement before you can talk to your lawyer, it is important to consult with an attorney before accepting the offer. A settlement may sound like a good deal, but it is important to remember that you may be entitled to more money if you file a lawsuit. An attorney can help you determine whether the settlement offer is fair and whether filing a lawsuit would suit your best interests.

The Bottom Line: The Importance of Consulting with a Lawyer before Talking to Your Insurance Company

If you are involved in an accident, it is important to consult with a lawyer before talking to your insurance company. Insurance companies are notorious for getting accident victims to settle quickly and for as little money as possible. By talking to a lawyer first, you can ensure that you are getting the best advice and representation possible. A lawyer can help you negotiate with the insurance company and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Are You Looking for Los Angeles Workers’ Compensation Lawyers?

If you or someone you know has been involved in a work-related accident, contact our experienced and caring Los Angeles workers' compensation lawyers for a consultation. We can walk you through the entire process and make sure you receive the compensation you deserve!

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