Most people know that after an accident, you must file a claim to get coverage for the event. However, not everyone knows how to properly do so. Here, we’ll tell you how.
Call the police
First, you should always call the police when you are in an accident. Their report is one of the best ways to confirm the details, especially when you may be in shock right after an accident.
Get the insurance information of the other driver
The law requires all parties involved in an accident to provide their insurance information. Be sure to get their name, contact information, insurance information, car information and take pictures of their vehicle and damages.
Call your insurance company
Next, call your insurance company. They may be able to help get your car towed if you cannot drive it. Then, they will assign you to a claims specialist, who will investigate the accident and work to settle your claim.
You will need to work with your claims specialist to determine which type of claim you will be making. Depending on the damage to your vehicle, you may have a diminished value or total loss claim. They will give you an estimate on the cost of repair for your vehicle and the claim payment that you will get. Be careful not to immediately accept this before you talk with your insurance company and get the details of the estimate.
File an accident report
Michigan laws state that an accident report must be filed with the police if there is:
- Over $1,000 in damage to property
- Injury or death
- Damage to a parked vehicle with no present owner
- Damage to unattended property
It’s important to remember that you may be recorded while you file your claim or talk to your insurance company. These recordings could show up in legal proceedings about the accident. While you can file a claim on your own, it may be wise to get help from an attorney to help avoid damaging any legal claims you may need to make.
