In the wake of an auto accident, one of the first actions to take is getting in touch with the insurance company to file a claim, but don’t let them tell you what to do. Since insurance adjusters work for insurance companies and not you, it is also critical for you to contact a wreck expert to help educate you with what you are owed. In addition, you’ll want to make sure you recoup as many losses as possible. Here are a handful of expenses to keep in mind during the process. 

4 Items to Include In the Auto Accident Insurance Claim

1. Loss of Vehicle Use

Even if you rent a car after the wreck, you may still be entitled to a dollar amount for the loss of use of your vehicle. Calculate the number of days that elapse until the car gets repaired or replaced, and talk to the adjuster about receiving compensation. 

2. Diminished Value

Once the car gets out of the repair shop, you likely won’t be able to tell it has been in an accident. However, when you want to sell the vehicle, the crash will appear in its history report, which may decrease its market value. The adjuster is working for the insurance company and you will want your own advocate to help you claim the difference. 

3. Loss of Income

If the auto accident causes you to take time off work while recovering from injuries, claim your lost salary percentage or hourly wages with the insurance company. If you lose your job as a direct result of an accident that was not your fault, include this as well. 

4. Alternate Transportation Costs

You should also claim any rental expenses that you have to pay out-of-pocket. The same is true of any money spent on ride-hailing services and public transportation. Save the receipts to ensure you’ll be reimbursed for the full amount. 

 

In the unfortunate event that you get into an auto accident, understand that you have professionals at WreckExpert.com to help you. With over 20 years of experience, they offer valuable advice to clients throughout Kansas and Missouri on how to handle everything from car repairs and total losses to insurance adjustments and referring legal counsel. Call (913) 444-4636 to speak for free with a certified appraiser and expert. Visit them online to find out what you need to know about more of their services like post-accident and repair inspections.