The first thing any insurance company will do after an accident is determine who is at fault. This investigation will determine the next steps of a passenger who was injured in the accident. Here is what you should do in order to get your injuries covered.
Fault of the Driver
If the accident was the fault of the driver, you can file a claim against their insurance. Their liability insurance should cover all of the medical expenses associated with the accident. You can also get reimbursed for any wages lost as a result of missed work days. The amount that you’re eligible for depends on the coverage that the driver purchased for passengers. This may be limited or not covered at all if you’re related to the driver.
Other Driver’s Fault
For accidents in which the other driver was found at fault, you can file a claim against their insurance. This also applies if they were found to be partially at fault for the accident. You’re making a claim against their liability insurance. The amount that you can receive will only cover the expenses that were incurred. You can only get a combined amount from both insurance companies to cover your expenses. This will cover your medical expenses as related to the accident and lost wages.
File Using Your Insurance
In some instances, you can file a claim against your insurance company. This should only be used for circumstances in which you can’t receive compensation from another insurance company. Filing this type of claim can raise your insurance rates. There are also special rules associated with this type of claim. Ask your insurance company for assistance before you file. If you receive money from another claim, the amount that you received from your company will be deducted.
Get Legal Help
It may be to your advantage to seek out legal advice following an accident. A lawyer can advise you on the best course of action. They can help you to file a claim in the appropriate manner. This can be helpful if you’re found to be partly at fault for the accident. Another instance when this can prove to be beneficial is if neither party has insurance. They can help you get your medical bills and lost wages covered. Medical bills can start to add up. This may be the only means you have to pay them.
Your first priority following an accident is to get the medical help that you need. After things have settled down, take these steps to pay your bills.
Author Info: Hannah Whittenly is a freelance writer and mother of two from Sacramento, CA. She enjoys kayaking and reading books by the lake. You can find her on Twitter.
