How to File a Bodily Injury Claim

If you or a family member has recently been involved in an automobile accident and the other party was at fault, or you were a passenger in another person's vehicle, you have the right to file a bodily injury claim with their insurance company. To get this process started you need to contact the person's insurance company directly and speak to a claims adjuster. The claims adjuster will take your statement based upon the facts of the accident and it's imperative that you provide all relevant information and be as detailed as possible.

Remember that depending upon your own personal situation it may make sense to contact a lawyer before contacting the insurance adjuster. The insurance adjuster is in place to reduce the liability to the insurance company with regards to your claim. In other words, they want to keep as much money in their pocket as possible. If you have extensive injuries or have any concerns you should first consult a lawyer. You can obtain a free or low cost consultation to determine if it's necessary to proceed. This can be beneficial to you in the long run and could potentially save you thousands of dollars.

The insurance adjuster will begin by asking you a series of questions such as the types of injuries you have received and what treatment was provided. They will also ask which provider provided care for your injuries as they may follow up with a medical records request after receiving authorization from you. You will also be asked if you're still being treated and if you have continuing pain or need follow-up care. Your medical bill costs will be needed and you may need to explain or ask them to make a statement on record if your going to have ongoing medical appointments for follow up care as these will increase your costs.

Next you will receive paperwork that must be filled out to complete your claim. This includes documentation to prove any loss of wages, you may be asked to provide proof through tax records. It's possible some forms will need to be notarized, this can be handled at a local establishment such as a bank. A medical authorization form may be included which allows the insurance company to request your insurance records. Remember to keep receipts from all expenses incurred in relation to your medical expenses. This includes parking fee's, travel expenses such as gas, and other related fee's. This can include a housekeeper, gas, kennel, parking, any expense directly related to receiving medical care. Always keep detailed records that can be produced in the event of questioning or proof. These records may determine if you receive compensation for the request.

Finally, depending on your state different rules apply that determine the amount of bodily injury insurance you can claim. If your in a state such as Florida, which is a no-fault state, you file your claim through your own insurance policy under "PIP" which is your personal injury protection. In a no fault state you can't sue unless extensive injuries or deaths occurred. It's best to consult a lawyer to determine what may be your best course of action if you fall under this category. In fault based states if you don't receive fair compensation you may sue to receive benefits from your claim.

Sources:

http://www.nolo.com/article.cfm/objectID/4568A92D-3D7A-4F77-A3ADA0C57FBA3B9B/104/199/215/ART/

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/5-tips-to-a-successful-bodily-injury-claim.html

http://insurance.freeadvice.com/information/auto/article/81