400 N Walker Ave #130, Oklahoma City, OK Phone: 405-605-2426
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Clayton T. Hasbrook who has years of legal experience as a personal injury lawyer. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.
Filing an insurance claim after a car accident can be confusing. Knowing what to do helps you get the compensation you deserve. This process involves contacting your insurance company, providing details, and working through the claims process. Proper steps ensure a smoother experience and protect your rights.
Hasbrook & Hasbrook helps clients through filing a car insurance claim. Our experienced team works to simplify the process. We understand how stressful accidents can be. That’s why we focus on protecting your interests and dealing with the insurance company for you.
Steps to Take Immediately After an Accident
- Check for Injuries: Make sure you and others are safe. Call 911 for medical help if needed.
- Move to Safety: If possible, move your car out of traffic to avoid more accidents.
- Call the Police: Contact a police officer or law enforcement to file an accident report. This helps document what happened.
- Exchange Information: Get names, contact details, insurance, and driver’s license numbers from everyone involved.
- Take Photos: Capture pictures of the scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
- Talk to Witnesses: Get the contact details of the people who saw the accident.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Stay calm and share facts with the police, but do not say you are at fault.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident and start the claim process.
Is Oklahoma a No-Fault State?
Oklahoma is not a no-fault state. This means that the driver responsible for the accident must pay for damages. You can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company if you are hurt or your car is damaged. This makes finding who is at fault very important.
How to File an Insurance Claim in Oklahoma
Filing a car insurance claim in Oklahoma starts with reporting the accident to your insurance company. Provide details about the accident, such as the location, date, time, and what happened. Your insurance company will guide you through the next steps. This may include collecting documents like the accident report and contacting the other driver’s insurance company if needed.
Having a clear understanding of your auto insurance policy helps. Different policies cover different things, so know what your coverage includes.
Contacting Your Insurance Provider and Reporting the Accident
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after an accident. This helps start the car insurance claim process quickly. Give your insurance company all the details about the accident. This includes the location, time, and names of people involved.
Your insurance company will ask questions about what happened. Be honest and clear. Reporting quickly can help avoid delays in processing your claim.
Providing Documentation and Accident Details to Insurers
When you file a claim, be ready to provide documents. This includes the accident report, photos of the damage, and any medical bills. Give your insurer a clear account of the accident, including the date, time, and location. Details help the insurance adjuster understand what happened.
Make sure all documents are accurate and complete. This can speed up your claim and help you get a fair to maximum settlement.
Deadlines for Filing a Claim
Filing a car insurance claim must be done quickly. Each insurance company has its deadlines. Report the accident as soon as you can. Delays may cause problems with your claim. Check your auto insurance policy for specific time limits.
Contact your insurance provider to confirm deadlines. Missing a deadline could mean losing your chance to get compensation. Acting fast helps protect your rights.
Types of Insurance Claims for Car Accidents
After a car accident, you can make different types of claims. Knowing what claims are available can help you get the coverage you need. A few main types of insurance claims you should consider are:
Property Damage Claims for Vehicle Repairs
Property damage claims cover repairs to your vehicle. This includes costs to fix dents, broken parts, or other damage from the crash. You may need to get an estimate from a repair shop. The insurance company may inspect the vehicle or send an adjuster.
If your car is a total loss, you may get compensation for its value. Make sure to keep all repair receipts and documents. This helps show what you need to be paid.
Personal Injury Claims for Medical Expenses and Lost Wages
Personal injury claims help cover medical costs from the accident. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, and therapy. You can also claim lost wages if you miss work due to your injuries.
Keep records of all medical bills and proof of missed work. This type of claim helps ensure you get the care and compensation you need.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims if Applicable
You can file an uninsured motorist claim if the other driver does not have enough insurance. This claim helps cover your damages when the other driver’s insurance is not enough. It can pay for medical costs, lost wages, and damage to your car.
Check your auto insurance policy to see if you have this coverage. This type of claim can be very helpful after an accident.
What to Expect During the Claims Process
The claims process involves many steps. After you file your car insurance claim, your insurance company will review it and may ask for more information and documents. Understanding what to expect helps make the process smoother.
Adjuster Evaluation and Investigation of the Claim
An insurance adjuster will review your claim. They check the accident report, photos, and other evidence. The adjuster may visit the accident scene or inspect your vehicle. Their job is to determine what happened and who is at fault.
The adjuster also decides how much compensation you may get. Be honest and provide all the details they request.
Negotiating the Settlement Offer With Insurance
Once the adjuster makes an offer, you can negotiate. The first offer may not cover all your costs. Be ready to show proof of medical bills, repair costs, and other losses. If needed, a lawyer can help you get a fair settlement.
Negotiation can take time. Stay patient and provide any needed documents quickly.
Potential Delays and Challenges in Claims Processing
The claims process can have delays. Sometimes, your insurance company needs more information. This can slow down the process. Disputes about who is at fault may also cause delays. It can take longer if the other driver’s insurance company is slow to respond.
Other challenges include disagreements about repair costs or medical bills. The insurance adjuster may attempt to offer a low settlement. This can lead to more back-and-forth discussions. Staying in touch with your insurance company and providing needed documents can help reduce delays. If issues continue, a personal injury lawyer can help you move the process forward.
Always Consult a Lawyer for Your Insurance Claim
Handling an insurance claim can be stressful. There are many rules and steps to follow. A knowledgeable lawyer knows how to deal with insurance companies and fight for fair compensation.
Hasbrook & Hasbrook helps clients through the claims process. We make sure you understand each step. Our team gathers evidence, handles paperwork, and talks with the insurance adjuster. This helps you focus on getting better. Having a lawyer means you are not alone in this process.
Rely on Our Oklahoma Car Accident Lawyer To Advocate for You
It can be complex to file an auto insurance claim after an auto accident. Hasbrook & Hasbrook will guide you through every step. Whether you need a rental car, have issues with the other insurance company, or face challenges with your claim, we are here to help. Our team works to secure your well-deserved compensation and fights for your rights.
We understand how overwhelming and hassle the claims process can be. That is why we handle the details for you. We are by your side, from gathering evidence to negotiating with the insurance company. Our goal is to get a fair to maximum settlement so you can focus on recovery. Contact us today to learn how we can support you after an accident.