There are several fun things you have done with your bike. Granted, going through the hassle of filing a motorcycle insurance claim will be nowhere on that list. However, as challenging as it may seem, it is possible to have a seamless time when you know the correct steps to follow. Here are some key steps to follow when filing a motorcycle insurance claim:
First things first, ensure that you are safe
In case of an accident, the first thing that should be on your mind is your safety. If you are still on the road, you need to get off to avoid oncoming traffic. However, be sure to take photos of the scene where the accident happened before you take your bike off the highway. Safety should be a priority any time you find yourself in the middle of an accident.
Do not admit liability
When you have a motorcycle accident, try not to accept liability for the other person’s damage. That could affect your insurance payout. The best thing to do is to keep quiet whether or not you think it was your fault. Try to keep your cool even if the other party is upset and angry. Just relax and wait for your insurance company to sort you.
Call the police
It is necessary to call the police when you are in an accident, whether or not there was someone else involved. The police will help with the third-party report that your insurance agents may need to fasten the claims process. The police will note down everything they saw and decide who was at fault. The police should also record the extent of the damage. Having a police record corroborating your claims makes it easier to get a good amount. The insurance company is more likely to trust the police record than your word.
Have all the vital information
After an accident, you want to have as much detail about everything. Jot down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all the parties involved. Collect information about their policy numbers and insurance companies and have a description of all the vehicles and their license plate numbers. Gather the names and contact details of any witnesses present at the location. Try to ask the witnesses to wait for the police so that they can give a formal statement about what happened. Be sure that the other person gives you their correct names and addresses. You can ask for their driver’s license to confirm that they are not issuing fake details.
Take photographs
A picture is worth a thousand words. It is the same case when there is an accident. Pictures are excellent documentation when making claims. Take photos of the scene before moving any of the cars or motorcycles. It helps to confirm who was at fault, depending on the vehicle placement. Also, take pictures detailing the damage on your bike and any other property. Have pictures of the location, including street names and the homes and businesses nearby.
Contact a motorcycle accident attorney
The insurance company is not your best friend. In most cases, the insurance company will be looking out for their bottom line, even if it means resolving your claim for the minimum amount. Having an attorney will help level the playing field with the insurance company. Well, call a motorcycle accident attorney to help you negotiate for a better settlement. An attorney has your best interest in mind and will use their knowledge and experience to help you get the best offer. Even if the negotiations for a better settlement fail, they can ensure that your case goes to trial and you get the best outcome from the lawsuit.
Call your insurance agent
Call your motorcycle insurer to report the incidence. Do that as soon as possible- at least within a 24-hour window following the incident. You do not need to have all the necessary paperwork before filing the claim. The insurer should help you understand the vital information to get the ball rolling. They will also send an assessor to appraise the damage on your motorcycle. The assessment will determine the amount they will pay you. If your bike is damaged beyond repair, they may write it off and pay you on the limits of a total loss, depending on your motorcycle insurance policy.
Conclusion
Do your due diligence in research before filing a claim. You do not want to go through the process blindly. Be aware of the fine print in your motorcycle insurance policy to know the limits of your coverage options.
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