According to our Dallas, TX car accident lawyer, when someone is involved in a car accident, one of the first steps often involves contacting an insurance company. Whether it’s our insurer or the other driver’s, this process plays a significant role in determining how quickly compensation is provided and how smoothly things progress. But what exactly happens behind the scenes once a claim is submitted? While every situation is different, most insurance companies follow a fairly predictable process that impacts how and when claims are resolved.
Initial Contact And Claim Filing
After an accident, most insurance companies encourage policyholders to report the incident as soon as possible. The first contact generally includes basic information: where the accident occurred, who was involved, and whether there were any injuries or damage to property. From there, a claim number is issued, and the file is passed on to a claims adjuster who will begin reviewing the information provided.
Assigning An Adjuster
The claims adjuster’s job is to assess the situation and determine how much liability, if any, their insured driver has. This part of the process can involve interviews with both drivers, passengers, and any witnesses, as well as reviewing photos of the damage and examining police reports. The goal for the adjuster is to determine fault, review applicable coverages, and assess the value of the claim.
If there are any disputes about who was responsible or if injuries are involved, this stage can take more time. Adjusters may also bring in third parties, like accident reconstruction professionals or medical reviewers, to support their evaluation. This isn’t always the case, but it tends to happen when the claim involves significant damage or potential legal challenges.
Damage Appraisal And Medical Review
If a vehicle has been damaged, the insurer will typically request that the car be inspected at an approved body shop or by an independent appraiser. The estimate provided will help the insurance company determine how much it will offer for the repairs or, in some cases, whether the car is considered a total loss.
In injury-related claims, insurance companies may ask for medical records and billing statements to review treatment and determine whether the care received was reasonable. In some instances, they might question the necessity of certain treatments, especially if the injury seems unrelated to the collision.
Settlement Offers And Negotiation
Once the adjuster has reviewed the evidence, they will present a settlement offer. These offers are often lower than the full value of the claim, especially at the beginning. Insurance companies are businesses, and minimizing payouts is part of how they remain profitable. That’s why it’s common for accident victims to be encouraged to accept a quick offer before they fully understand the impact of their injuries or the long-term cost of repairs and medical care.
Closing Out The Claim
If the offer is accepted, the claim is closed, and payment is issued. If it’s rejected, further negotiation may follow, often with legal representation involved. The insurance company will close the claim once a final agreement is reached or when a settlement is enforced through legal channels. It’s important to remember that once a claim is settled and signed, it’s typically final. That’s why it’s so critical to have the full picture before accepting anything.
At Brandy Austin Law Firm, our full-service team helps individuals understand their rights after a car accident and works to make sure insurance companies don’t cut corners when it comes to fair compensation. If you’ve been in a crash and are facing pressure from an insurance provider, we’re here to support you. Contact our award-winning attorneys today to talk through your options and take the next step forward.
