subject: How To File An Insurance Claim Without Getting Into Trouble [print this page] Most people never use their insurance. That's the way it's supposed to be. If a thousand people have insurance, and only ten people have an accident, then the insurance company has accurately predicted the risk and spread it between all those people. That's why they can pay out claims in the thousands, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, and only charge each individual a few hundred dollars a year. Of course, when they do pay claims, they've got to make sure they are legitimate, or else insurance fraud would run rampant, and the whole system would collapse. That's why you've got to be on your toes when filing an insurance claim. In this article, you'll learn how to do it right, so you don't get short changed.
Being pro-active is essential. Most people have no idea how to file a claim, except to maybe call their agent and ask them what to do. But when you are trying to recover from an accident or something, that's not the time to learn how to do things. Learn before hand, when everything is calm, and you'll have less trouble when panic hits.
Most people think of filing a claim as filling out some paperwork, and then getting a check in a couple days. Unfortunately, it doesn't work like that. The less insurance companies pay out in claims, the less money they'll make. So you should think of a claim as a negotiation. You file for a certain amount, and they'll try and pay you less. You've got to go back and forth until you come to an agreement. A good agent will help you out with this process, so don't be afraid to ask.
Keep in mind that the people handling claims have plenty on their plate. They have stacks and stacks of paperwork, and yours is just another folder on the pile. Any time you give them some information, or answer one of their questions, you've got to give them time to digest that information. If you are too pushy, it can actually slow down the claims process.
Every time you contact them, document it. This will give you something to refer to later on if there is any trouble. Keep a special log, and keep track of all communications. Verify everything that is said, and get everybody's name whom you speak with.
If it gets to the point where you feel you are in over your head, then get some professional help. Getting an insurance attorney can be a powerful way to let them know that you are serious. Often times, this can help expedite your claim and get you paid.
by: Winston Takeda
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