In addition to being damaging to your vehicle and causing you physical harm, car wrecks can be inconvenient and tiresome. Many people do not know how to navigate the claims process to ensure that the at-fault party’s insurance company covers the cost of their rental car, the repairs to their vehicle, and the cost of the medical care.
Often there is insurance available to cover the cost of vehicle repair and medical costs. If you have been involved in a car accident, be sure to follow these three simple steps to ensure that you get on your way to recovery.
- Exchange insurance information at the scene
- Put your insurance company on notice in the event you need to use your coverage
- Open a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company
Exchange insurance information at the scene
It can be hectic and confusing after a car accident. Your first concern is always the safety of everyone involved and calling emergency services if needed. Once you are past the point of calling for help and rendering immediate aid, try to exchange information.
With the use of smartphones, this is easier than ever. Simply take a photo of the at-fault driver’s insurance card. They can do the same with yours.
Put your insurance company on notice
Even though you may never use your insurance coverage, it is better to put them on notice just in case. You don’t want your insurance carrier to say later that you failed to give timely notice of a collision and deny coverage. You may not use your insurance and certainly do not intend to do so if the at-fault party has coverage.
However, if the at-fault driver does not have adequate coverage, you may need to look to your carrier. It is better to play it safe with putting them on notice early.
Open a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance
I have been asked in the past if you need the at-fault driver’s permission to open a claim with their insurance or if you need to give them notice that you filed a claim. The answer to both is No.
As soon as possible after the accident, place the at-fault driver’s insurance company on notice of your claim. You can do this by calling the toll-free number listed on the insurance card and use the driver’s policy number as a reference.
Hire a Houston car wreck attorney to help
A car accident can be a stressful event. Dealing with the aftermath can be equally as stressful. Contact an experienced Houston car wreck attorney to help you through the process. Call Chelsie King Garza today for a free consultation.
