Motor Vehicle Accident Insurance Claim Guide
|
This is a FREE Insurance Claim Guide
Your "Motor Vehicle" can be a truck, car, motorcycle - - you name it! If it's powered by a motor and has one, two, three, four (or even more) wheels this "Guide" is for you.
The information below is a bare-bones "Guide" for those who have had such a motor vehicle accident. It details the basics of how one should with their property damage and/or personal injury claim.
AFTER IMPACT CHECKLIST
We heartily suggest you make a copy of this "Impact Checklist" to be kept handy within the confines of your motor vehicle. A "Guide" to refer to so you'll be certain, should an accident take place, that you've covered everything.
Other than the fact that one must obtain from the other operator, both their drivers license and motor vehicle registration information, you should also proceed to do the following:
IMMEDIATELY MAKE SPECIAL NOTE OF: Names and addresses of eye witnesses. And later the investigating police officers name and badge number. WEATHER CONDITIONS: Snow, rain, fog, mist, sleet, etc. ROAD SURFACE: Dry, wet, slippery, icy, etc.IMPACT AREA: City, suburban, business, wooded, etc. VISIBILITY: Sunny, cloudy, dusk, night, moonlight, etc. (Was the sun in the other driver's face)? TRAFFIC CONTROLS: Were there overhead lights? Posted speed limit signs? Stop or warning signs? Hospital or school zone signs? CREATE A DIAGRAM: Driving area: Flat, crowned, straight, curved, macadam, asphalt, concrete, cobblestone, dirt, etc. Indicate the width of street. Show the location of impact, gouge and/or skid marks. CONDITION OF MOTOR VEHICLE THAT STRUCK YOU: Age and general overall condition. Is their state inspection sticker displayed and up to date? Were chains or snow tires needed? AS SOON AS POSSIBLE RETURN TO THE SCENE AND SNAP PHOTOGRAPHS: It's most important to take pictures of: Skid or gouge mark's on the road surface plus the damage to both vehicles. PHOTOS OF YOUR BODILY INJURIES: It's crucial to the ultimate value of your claim to snap a multitude of colored photos (up close and from different angles) of your bodily injuries - - especially all black and blue marks or bruises.
INSIGHTS INTO HANDLING YOUR CLAIM (There Are Six Areas You Must Be Familiar With) 1. Out-Of-Pocket Expenses 2. Lost Time From Work - Lost Wages 3. Property Damage Losses 4. What Your Medical Doctor And/Or Chiropractor Reports Should State 5. Medical Payments Coverage 6. What To Do If An Adjuster Refuses To Cooperate
You Should Go Into Detail Regarding These (Below Listed) Six Areas:
(1) OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES:These are expenses that can be measured in definite sums of money. They are the foundation of the calculations used to award damages (including that often great and extra amount paid to you for your "Pain and Suffering") regarding any financial loss flowing directly from the injury you may have sustained.
MEDICAL EXPENSES: Obtain all bills and services rendered. (Prior to their being sent out, you have ever right to ask for and read the crucial Final Reports regarding your physical condition from your Doctor, Chiropractor, "Medical Specialist" and/or Dentist).Medical Expenses Typically Include: Ambulance ~ Emergency Room ~ Hospital or Clinic ~ Laboratory Fees and Services ~ Diagnostic Tests: (X-rays and/or CT Scan) ~ Registered or Practical Nurse Fees ~ Medicine and/or Prescription Medications ~ Prosthetic Appliances or Surgical Apparatus (Canes & crutch, etc.) ~ Physical Therapy ~ Ace Bandages, Gauze & Tape ~ Heating Pads ~ Creams, Ointments, Balms & Salves. As you read them make sure these Medical Reports include the length of time of your "Total Disability" and/or your "Partial Disability". These are of enormous value because they justify the often HUGE, extra payment made for your "Pain and Suffering" . (Plus this information will also prove your claim for Lost Wages).
NON-MEDICAL DAMAGE EXPENSES. These include: Lost Wages and Earnings ~ Lost Vacation Time and/or Sick Leave ~ Travel Expenses: (Transportation costs incurred getting to and from The Doctor and/or Hospital, etc.) ~ Household Help During Disability ~ Child Care During Recuperation.
(2) LOST TIME FROM WORK - - LOST WAGES - - YOUR "LOSS EARNING CAPACITY": The weeks, hours and/or days you were unable to work (thus the money you may have lost) is added up and documented on company letterhead. You're often entitled to compensation for "Lost Time and Earnings" even if you have no actual loss of money ! Such as, for example, if your salary is paid by some other insurance coverage you may have or by taking sick leave or some other similar arrangement. It doesn't matter if you're employed full time, part time, self-employed, own your own business, retired, unemployed, or a housewife not employed outside the home, you should keep a written record of all household help and/or child care needed during your disability period.
All of these constitute an element of your "SPECIAL DAMAGES" mainly "Lost Wages". Insurance companies usually don't view your time away from work (because of an injury) as "Lost Time And Earnings" but as "Lost Earning Capacity". In most states one is entitled to compensation for lost time and earnings even if they have no loss of money. For example, when your salary is paid for by another insurance coverage you have or by taking sick leave and/or some other similar type of arrangement. There are specific situations to be considered and called to the forefront when it comes to being employed either full-time or part-time. More detailed information (regarding these above stated area's of your loss) are found in CHAPTER FOUR "Damages" within the book AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM.
(3) PROPERTY DAMAGE LOSSES: "AGREED COST TO REPAIR": This figure has been negotiated between your damage repair person and the insurance adjuster. Be sure you know (and possess a written copy of) exactly what that figure is.COLLISION: There's usually a deductible. Read your policy. (If you're not at fault you should eventually be able to get this money back).PROPERTY DAMAGE LIABILITY: Protects you for damages you do to the property of another (i.e. his or her trees, lawn, shrubs, mailbox, etc.) EXCLUSIONS: These are stated in your policy. A good rule of thumb is, "If it's not excluded, it's covered". Read your policy closely to discover your exclusions and how they apply. TOTAL LOSS: A "Total Loss" is when the motor vehicle damage exceeds the value of the vehicle, as stated within all of the up-to-date and "Official" Property Damage books and/or documents. OTHER PROPERTY DAMAGE LOSSES: Clothing, jewelry, watches, eye or sunglasses, etc. You can also collect for your (or any other individuals) personal property which happened to be in the car and was damaged. (Be sure to have written proof of the cost of each item damaged plus the date it was purchased). Never forget: You're entitled to be reimbursed for any charges you may have incurred for towing, storage and/or substitute motor vehicle rental, or for that matter - - any other alternate transportation.
The above is a very brief review. For more in-depth information read CHAPTER FIVE: PROPERTY DAMAGE found in AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM.
(4) WHAT YOUR MEDICAL DOCTOR AND/OR CHIROPRACTOR REPORT SHOULD STATE: Each "Injury Evaluation Factor" should be clearly stated within each of your final Medical Reports. For example: That your disability is solely the result of the accident. If there were any pre-existing conditions aggravated by your injuries? What treatments were administered and for what duration? What medications were prescribed, in what amounts and for how long? What symptoms or medical problems were such medications meant to relieve? Were there any adverse reactions demonstrated? Ask to read them before they're sent to the adjuster so you're sure it explains the nature, plus the extent and frequency of the pain that an injury, such as yours, will likely cause.
PROGNOSIS: This is the clearly stated information (regarding your personal injury progress) and should include: The part played by a pre-existing condition, if any? Their prediction of any possible future temporary disability/impairments? Does the individual attending you anticipate any further or future treatments? LENGTH OF YOUR "TOTAL" DISABILITY: Why? Because it's so important (when it comes time to settle) this is clearly stated in weeks and days. LENGTH OF YOUR "PARTIAL" DISABILITY: Again (and for the same reason as above) this too should be clearly stated in weeks and days. (Specific details, regarding both "Partial" and "Total" Disability , and the incredible value it provides for you in your claim, are found in CHAPTER SIX: YOUR BODILY INJURY).
(5) MEDICAL PAYMENTS COVERAGE: If you have this coverage in your motor vehicle policy, it will pay (up to the limits stated) for all medical bills arising out of the accident - - regardless of who's at fault! (You must read your policy carefully because the "Who", "Why" and/or "How" of this often differs).
A WORD ABOUT HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS: In certain instances, it may be possible to have your medical bills paid and yet avoid any repayment by tapping into your health insurance coverage, or some other plan you may have. (Yes, this means, under certain circumstances, you may be able to collect twice for the same medical bills)!
(6) WHAT TO DO IF THE ADJUSTER REFUSES TO COOPERATE? These Are Your Usual And Routine Choices: a. Threaten that you're going to obtain the services of a lawyer to represent you. b. Go over the adjuster's head. c. Resolve your loss in Small Claims Court. d. Contact the proper people (working through the State Department of Insurance) implementing the time honored principle of "Good Faith" vs. "Bad Faith".
All the information necessary for you to deal with and handle the above issues are spelled out within the contents of AUTO ACCIDENT PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE CLAIM (How To Evaluate And Settle Your Loss) found on the internet at http://www.autoaccidentclaims.com or http://www.caraccidentclaims.com. This book also contains BASE (The Baldyga Auto Accident Settlement Formula). THE BASE FORMULA will tell you exactly how many dollars the "Pain and Suffering" you endured are worth.
DISCLAIMER: The only purpose of this article is to help people understand the motor vehicle accident claim process. Dan Baldyga, does not offer a guarantee of any kind whatsoever, NOR to substitute for a lawyer, an insurance adjuster, or claims consultant, or the like. Where such professional help is desired it is the INDIVIDUALS RESPONSIBLY to obtain such services.
Copyright (c) 2004 By Daniel G. Baldyga. All Rights Reserved.
About The Author
For over 30 years Dan Baldyga was a Claims Adjuster, Supervisor, Manager and Trial Assistant. He is now retired and spends his time attempting to assist those involved in motor vehicle accident claim so they will not be taken advantage of. dbpaw@comcast.net
|
|
|
Why Boats Are A Pleasure... But You Still Need Boat Insurance
One of the greatest pleasures that a man can have is owning his own boat. It goes back to the days of adventure on the high seas when a man was absolute monarch of his realm as a captain of his ship.Today there are very few places that the average man can be master and comma...(related: Insurance)
Car Insurance Online ? Benefits Of Applying For Auto Insurance Online
Drivers are applying for auto insurance online not just for the convenience of comparing quotes, but also to find the best insurance rate. The benefits also include discovering new discounts and not being locked into a long term relationship with an insurance company.Comparing QuotesBefore the internet, getting real quotes from auto insurance companies was difficult. But, now with a few clicks of a mouse, you can get instant access to insurance quotes based on the coverage you choose. Online insurance sites also allow you to look at the details of each plan, so you can compare the quality of coverage as well as the price.Finding DiscountsYou can reduce your auto insurance p...(related: Insurance)
The Great Value Of Accident Photographs
You were humming along on a bright and sunny day when suddenly Fred Fuddle, a local character from a nearby town, drunk as a skunk and zooming along in his pickup, flew through stop sign crashing into the right front of your motor vehicle. You had no choice to avoid him. Now the time has come to settle your claim for...(related: Insurance)
What You Need To Know About Auto Insurance
Let's be realistic, everyone needs to have auto insurance. Aside from the fact that almost every state requires it, it is only logical for a driver to see that his vehicle is properly insured. Auto insurance offers property, liability and medical coverage. A full policy c...(related: Insurance)
Car Insurance Monitoring For Discounted Insurance Rates - Privacy Devouring Monster Eating Us One Bi
For a price, would you let car insurer along for the ride? -asks a USA Today technology story by Kevin Maney. It seemsthat Progressive Insurance and IBM have worked out a scheme topay drivers to be safer - by monitoring their every move intheir own cars, and how fast they make that move, and wherethey park, and what time they drive.The program is being tested in Minnesota and in the U.K. in aprivacy busting program that rewards drivers for keeping underthe maximum speed limits and driving during safer times ofday. It's an interesting twist that is compared here to ashopper reward card that monitors what you buy, althou...(related: Insurance)
The Immorality Of Guarantee Issue Health Insurance
While there are genuine debates about whether privatized health insurance or nationalized health insurance policies make more sense, there can be little doubt that gua...(related: Insurance)
Insurance For The Self Employed And Those Seeking Health Insurance
First of all, congratulations on deciding to go out and make it on your own. The rewards and excitement of making it on your own can not be found anywhere else. Now, when looking for insurance for the self employed for a person like yourself, it's important to remember that generally you'll find better rates if you deal directly with the insuring company. There are many confusing options available but the good news is t...(related: Insurance)
Health Insurance Quotes Online - Tips On Finding A Good Provider
Since 2001, major health insurance providers have been allowing consumers to buy policies online. Through the convenience of the internet, consumers are able to compare prices and coverage to find the best insurance policy for them. Before you sign up with a health insurance provider, you should consider price, company history, and coverage to make sure you find a good plan for your situation.Identify Your Coverage NeedsBefore you start gathering quotes for health insurance policies, identify how much coverage you will need. Start by looking over your past medical expenses for the last three years. Do you need a lot of coverage or do you rarely need to see a doctor?Next, consider your future expected medical expenses. Are you looking to cover typical office visits through the year? Or do you want to protect ...(related: Insurance)
How Much Car Insurance Should You Buy?
Car insurance is one of the most dreaded chunks in your budget. And depending on which state you live in, it could be a smaller or larger chunk of your budget than your neighbors across state lines.How much insurance should you buy? Any insurance agent worthy of their salt will tell you that you should buy as much as y...(related: Insurance)
Is Life Insurance Comparison Really Necessary?
When you want to purchase a life insurance policy, you really do need to do a life insurance comparison. This is to ensure that you get the best possible rates and the best possible life insurance for your needs. Different life insurance companies sell different types of policies so you need to do a life insurance comparison of all the different types available. You also want to get a policy with low cost premiums.In a life insurance comparison, you have to decide whether you want variable uni...(related: Insurance)
site-map - Copyright © 2006 Insurance | All Rights Reserved. | Insurance