Car Accident Claims
Frequently Asked Questions
You should still treat it as a hit-and-run. File a police report immediately upon discovery, as there may be security cameras in the area (like a parking lot) that captured the incident. Then, promptly contact your insurance company. Be prepared to explain the delay and provide your best estimate of when and where the incident likely happened. A delayed report is better than no report at all.
Do not automatically accept a denial or low offer. First, request a written explanation citing the specific policy language used to justify the decision. Review your policy yourself to understand the coverage. You have the right to appeal the decision and provide additional evidence. If the dispute involves significant value or a liability denial, it is strongly advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in insurance disputes before proceeding further.
The insurer calculates your vehicle’s “Actual Cash Value” (ACV). This is not the original purchase price or the cost to replace it with a new model. ACV is the fair market value of your specific car just before the accident, considering its age, mileage, condition, options, and recent sales of comparable vehicles in your area. You should review their valuation report for accuracy and provide evidence of recent major repairs or high-value options they may have missed.
You must still show how the other party was wrong, but your own fault will be considered. Many jurisdictions use “comparative negligence” rules. This means your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, your total damages award will be decreased by 20%. In some places, if you are more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering anything.