In a perfect world, car accident claims would be processed fairly and based on fault. However, it isn’t always the case that one can prove a car accident claim, even when it seems obvious that he or she wasn’t at fault. Most of the time, victims make small mistakes after the car accident occurs that affect the outcome of the claim. Below are five car accident myths that impact the efficacy of a car accident claim.
I am honest, so the other driver must be, too.
Imagine you are in an accident with another driver, and the other driver admits fault to you and promises to do the same when dealing with the insurance company. So out of courtesy, you allow the police officer to waive the ticket at the scene of the accident, only to find out the other driver lied to his insurance company and claimed you were at fault.
Something similar happened to a Washington resident, which is why the Washington Times reports that it is naïve to expect other drivers to be honest when involved in a car accident. Always follow the letter of the law, including ticketing, driver information exchange and reporting the accident. Some drivers may change their story once they get their insurance company on the phone. Besides all of this, dealing with your own insurance adjuster after an accident in Tacoma requires its own set of skills.
My insurance premium will increase if I report my accident.
Many drivers are hesitant to make a car accident claim because they believe their car insurance premiums will go up after they’ve reported the accident. The Washington Times also reported that car insurance premiums do not increase if you make a car accident claim. Recurrent claims could raise your insurance premium, but it is not raised if you are not at fault in the car accident.
My car insurance covers all damages.
Unfortunately, that’s not the case with all types of policies. NBC News reported on the different types of car insurance, which are liability, collision and comprehensive. Liability only covers personal injury and injury and/or property damage to others. Comprehensive and collision insurance will cover the former, as well as damage to your car and/or property.
My insurance/the other driver’s insurance has to pay me.
If you were at fault or if the other driver does not have insurance, you may need a payment for personal injury or property damages. On the other hand, you may be waiting for the other driver’s insurance company to pay you. However, no insurance company technically has to pay for anything unless you take them to court. Most companies follow the standard claims process, but others have trouble cooperating with customers.
I can handle my own insurance claim.
Caraccidentinfo.org recommends finding trusted legal counsel to support you through the car accident claims process. As previously stated, insurance companies can be difficult to deal with, and there is no guarantee of payment after you were involved in a car accident. Max Meyers Law can help you handle any car accident claim. If you’re researching what happens after a car accident, check out our free online book, Car Accident Secrets Unlocked.