I’ve gotten into an accident for the first time in my life. It’s thrown a wrench into everything. How do I get the most money from a car insurance claim so I get back on track?
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“I’m so sorry to hear about your accident; I hope you’re okay!
One of the best things you can do is to get the most money for your claim is to keep track and document everything. If possible, make sure to take photos of your car, the other driver’s car, and any important details or information.
Also, keep your receipts for any expenses related to the accident for your claim. Expenses can include:
Medical bills
Vehicle damage
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Most
car insurance companies
will reimburse for injuries or difficulties an accident causes, so having proof can maximize your payout.
Beyond that, it’s best to get a couple of quotes from mechanics you trust for repairs. A quote can help you estimate the cost of repairs, which is helpful, especially if you have a deductible. It also gives you a better idea of the total cost of the accident.
If you know the cost of all the damages and injuries an accident caused, you have a better chance to negotiate or spot a lower offer from your insurance. While insurance protects you, you may need to negotiate with an insurance company to maximize your claim payout.
Since submitting an insurance claim or getting into an accident can often impact your rate, consider shopping around once you receive your payout.
An easy way to do this is with
Jerry
. Jerry is an app that gathers insurance quotes from top providers, ensuring you always have the best rate and coverage.”
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