The process starts immediately when you notify your insurance company about a potential claim or lawsuit. You must provide all relevant details and documentation. The insurer will then assign a claims adjuster to investigate the incident. Their role is to determine if the claim is covered under your policy, assess the validity of the allegations, and evaluate the potential financial value of the claim. You should cooperate fully but avoid discussing the incident or admitting fault directly with the claimant.

It means the person bringing the claim (the plaintiff) has the legal responsibility to prove that another specific party (the defendant) is at fault. You cannot simply show you were injured or suffered a loss; you must connect that harm directly to the wrongful actions or negligence of the defendant. The burden of proof rests entirely on you. If you cannot clearly identify and prove the other party was responsible, your claim will fail, regardless of how severe your damages are.

You might handle a minor claim yourself only if you have very small medical bills (like a single doctor’s visit), no missed work, no lasting pain, and clear liability is not disputed. This typically applies to minor fender-benders with no injuries. However, be extremely cautious. If you sign a release for a quick settlement, you forever give up your right to claim more money, even if a hidden injury surfaces later. When in doubt, a brief consultation with a lawyer is wise.