Filing Auto Insurance Claims: A Guide For Texans

If you've been in a car accident in Texas, it's important to know how to file an auto insurance claim. The first step is to contact your insurance company as soon as possible and discuss your options. You'll want to take photos and videos of the damage, get contact and insurance information from anyone involved, and, if possible, take steps to prevent further damage to your car. It's also important to keep a record of all communication with your insurance company, including the names and titles of anyone you speak to. When it comes to choosing a repair shop, remember that you don't have to use one recommended by your insurance company and that you are free to select any shop you want.

Document the accident scene and damage

Documenting the accident scene and damage is crucial for filing an auto insurance claim in Texas. Here are the steps you should take:

Take Pictures:

• Photograph the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, license plates, and any visible damage to the vehicles.
• Capture images of street signs, road conditions, and angles to provide context for the incident.

Exchange Information:

• Obtain the other driver's information by taking a picture of their insurance card and driver's license.
• If they don't have an insurance card, ask for their full name, phone number, insurance company name, and policy number.
• Provide the other driver with your contact information as well.

Talk to Witnesses:

If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and phone numbers. Their accounts can be valuable in determining fault.

Write Down Details:

• Make note of the location, time, and date of the accident, as well as weather and road conditions.
• Describe what happened leading up to and during the accident in as much detail as possible.

Call the Police:

• If someone is injured or the other driver leaves the scene, contact the police immediately.
• Obtain a copy of the police report for your insurance company. They will need this for their records.

Contact Your Insurance Company:

• Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Most insurance companies have a deadline for filing claims, typically around 30 days.
• Get the name and contact information of the adjuster assigned to your claim. They will be your main point of contact throughout the claims process.

Seek Medical Attention:

• If you or anyone involved in the accident is injured, seek medical attention promptly.
• Keep records of your medical bills and reports, as these will be important when filing your claim.

Remember, the more detailed and comprehensive your documentation is, the stronger your insurance claim will be. It is also essential to act quickly, as Texas has specific timelines and deadlines for filing auto insurance claims.

Contact your insurance company

Contacting your insurance company is the first step in filing an auto insurance claim in Texas. Here's a detailed guide on what to do:

• Do it promptly: It is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident. Most companies have deadlines for filing claims, and you can find a phone number to call on your insurance card. Explain what happened and answer any questions as thoroughly as possible.
• Gather information: Before contacting your insurance company, gather relevant information, such as the other driver's name, address, phone number, license plate number, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, get their contact information too. Additionally, take note of the time, date, and exact location of the accident, as well as any special circumstances like weather and road conditions.
• Document the accident: Take photos and/or videos of the accident scene, including your car, the other vehicles involved, and any property damage. Also, photograph the other driver's insurance information, driver's license, and license plate. If you have any injuries, document them as well.
• File a police report: Contact the police and file a report about the accident. You can request a copy of the police report, which may be useful for your insurance claim.
• Provide details: When speaking with your insurance company, provide as much detail as possible about the accident. Be prepared to answer questions and explain what happened.
• Get the adjuster's information: During the claims process, you will likely interact with an adjuster, who is responsible for reviewing the loss and determining what is covered under your policy. Get the adjuster's name, phone number, and email address.
• Keep records: Make sure to keep records of all communication with your insurance company, including emails, repair estimates, and receipts. Take notes on phone calls and follow up with an email or letter to confirm what was discussed.
• Understand your policy: Read your insurance policy carefully to understand your coverage and what is included. Don't rely solely on your agent's explanation of your policy.
• Discuss options: Talk to your insurance company about your options and whether filing a claim is the best course of action. Consider your deductible, which is the amount you pay before your insurance coverage kicks in.
• Temporary repairs: If possible, take steps to prevent further damage to your car. You can cover broken windows or put a tarp over any holes to protect your vehicle until repairs can be made.

Remember, it's essential to remain calm and provide accurate information when contacting your insurance company. They are there to help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the coverage you need.

Prevent further damage

After an accident, it's important to take steps to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Firstly, move your car to a safe location if possible. This will help protect your car from sustaining any more damage and ensure your safety. Next, conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle to identify any hidden damage. This is a critical step that is often overlooked, but it can help you avoid unexpected repair bills, vehicle devaluation, and safety hazards. A professional mechanic can perform a comprehensive inspection of your vehicle's exterior, interior, mechanical components, and electronic systems to uncover any potential issues.

Remember that vehicle damage may not always be obvious, especially after minor accidents. Hidden damage can lead to significant structural issues and higher repair costs down the line. For example, your car's suspension system may seem fine, but underlying damage can worsen over time. Even small changes in alignment can result in more frequent tire changes and reduced vehicle performance. A thorough inspection will help you identify these issues early on and save you from costly repairs later.

Additionally, a vehicle that has suffered collision damage, especially with underlying issues, can lose its value. This will impact your financial returns when you decide to sell or trade your vehicle. In particular, damage to the vehicle's frame can lead to considerable devaluation.

To prevent further damage and ensure your safety, it is best to take your vehicle to a collision center for a thorough inspection immediately after an accident, regardless of its severity. This will help detect any hidden damage and enable you to make a more accurate insurance claim. By following proper post-accident procedures, you can minimize the impact of the accident and make informed decisions about repairs.

File a claim

The first step in filing a claim is to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. You can do this by calling the company, filing a claim online, or using the company's mobile app. It is important to act quickly, as insurance companies have deadlines for filing claims. You should also let your insurance company know about the accident, even if you are filing a claim with someone else's insurance company.

When you contact the insurance company, you will need to provide information about the accident, including witness information and the police report number if you have it. You should also take photos and videos of all damage to your vehicle. If your house is damaged, write down the time and date you first noticed the damage, as well as the weather conditions at the time.

After you have contacted your insurance company, they will ask you questions about the accident and may request additional information to decide whether to accept your claim. It is important to cooperate with the insurance company and provide them with the information they need. An adjuster may visit in person or review pictures of the damage to estimate repair costs.

Keep in mind that you may need to meet a deductible, which is the amount you pay before your insurance company covers the rest. This information can be found on the declarations page of your policy.

If your claim is accepted, you will need to choose a contractor or shop to repair the damage. Your insurance company may provide a list of preferred repair shops, but you are not required to use them and can choose any shop you want. Be sure to get estimates from multiple contractors or body shops and provide them with the insurance company's estimate.

Throughout the claims process, it is important to keep records of all communication with the insurance company, including the names and contact information of anyone you speak to. Keep all receipts for expenses related to the accident, as well as repair estimates, emails, and medical bills.

Negotiate a settlement

Negotiating a settlement with an insurance company can be a stressful process, but there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of a successful outcome. Here is a guide on how to negotiate a settlement when filing an auto insurance claim in Texas.

Determine the Value of Your Vehicle

First, you need to determine the true value of your vehicle. This will help you understand what a fair settlement amount would be. You can use online tools, such as Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or the National Automobile Dealers Association's (NADA) website, to get a ballpark figure for your vehicle's value. Additionally, consider the year of manufacturing and the value of similar vehicles for sale online.

Research and Calculate a Fair Settlement Amount

Calculate a fair settlement amount by considering the following factors:

• Any suffering and pain caused by the accident.
• The cost of any required medical care and other related expenses.
• Loss of income due to an inability to work caused by your injuries.
• The cost to repair or replace your vehicle.
• The cost to repair any property damaged during the accident.
• The possibility of requiring long-term medical care or permanent disabilities resulting from the accident.

Send a Demand Letter

Once you have determined a minimum settlement amount, send a demand letter to the insurance company. In this letter, describe the accident in detail, including any injuries sustained, the extent of damage to your vehicle, and any other losses or damages resulting from the accident. It is important to include supporting documentation or evidence to back up your claims. The demanded settlement amount should be 25-100% higher than your minimum expectation, as the insurance company will likely counter with a lower offer.

Counter and Negotiate

If the insurance company responds to your demand letter with a reasonable offer, you can counter with an amount slightly lower than your original demand. This shows your willingness to compromise and negotiate. Continue this back-and-forth negotiation process until you reach an amount that both parties agree is reasonable and fair.

Finalize the Settlement

Once you have reached an agreement with the insurance adjuster, make sure to get the negotiated amount in writing. Send a letter to the adjuster confirming the agreed-upon settlement amount, the date by which you expect to receive additional documentation or payment, and the specific damages and/or injuries covered by the settlement.

If at any point during this process you feel overwhelmed or unsure, consider consulting a personal injury or automotive accident attorney for legal advice and guidance.

Frequently asked questions