Accidents happen, and when your property gets damaged in the process, you want to receive compensation for it. While you can try to do the necessary legwork on your own, working with a personal injury attorney will speed up the claims process. Ensure that you’re getting what you deserve with a few do’s and don’ts about filing an insurance claim.

Do:

Notify your insurer immediately.

One of the first tasks you have to do after an accident is to inform your insurance company. Claims can be adjusted with fewer complications if the physical evidence and witness accounts are still fresh. Keep in mind that insurers require you to report an incident within a limited time frame.

Document everything.

Be sure to take note of everything that happened during the accident, using photographic evidence, medical records, receipts, and correspondence with other parties. Keep a record of documents, and retain a copy for your own files. You should also refrain from volunteering information that might affect the outcome of the investigation, skewing it in favor of the other party.

Don’t:

Settle without consulting your lawyer.

Refrain from negotiating directly with the other party; instead, conduct all correspondence through your personal injury attorney. Always have your lawyer present whenever a fair settlement is being offered. You should also avoid admitting fault about the incident, as it can affect your claim.

Accept adjuster estimates right away.

Keep in mind that the valuation of insurance adjusters is not final. Ask your lawyer or obtain a reasonable estimate through a public adjuster instead. They will give you a figure for replacing or repairing the damaged property.

When filing for property damage claims for an auto accident, rely on a personal injury attorney from Seiler & Parker P.C., L.L.O. for assistance. As a full-service firm based in Hastings, NE, they have provided top-notch legal counsel—from personal injury law to estate planning. Call (402) 463-3125 to schedule a free consultation on injury compensation or visit them online today.