Florida Auto Insurance Claims Attorney
When you’re involved in an accident and file a claim with your auto insurance company, you expect to be paid in full and without delay. After all, you have probably been paying premiums on that policy for some time. If your auto insurance company refuses to pay a claim or unreasonably delays the payment on a claim, it can make handling the accident and damage you suffered very difficult.
Making matters worse is the fact that people often do not know what steps to take when they need to file a claim with their auto insurance provider, much less who to contact for help if they need it. If you find yourself needing assistance with an auto insurance claim, the following information may be helpful.
What Should I Do When I Have to Make an Auto Insurance Claim?
The need to make a claim with your auto insurance provider may come because you were involved in an accident; however, auto insurance claims are not always the result of an accident. For example, you may have suffered a theft or been the victim of vandalism. Your vehicle could also have been damaged during a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or flood. Regardless of the reason for filing a claim, if you do need to file one, take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention if you were injured. If you or a passenger in your vehicle were injured in a car accident, seek medical attention immediately. Many serious injuries do not exhibit symptoms right away, so you need to get examined even if you’re feeling fine because serious injuries could exist and require attention. Getting examined as soon as possible also provides evidence that any injuries you suffered were directly linked to the accident.
- Contact the police, if warranted. If the reason for your claim relates to damage caused by an accident, theft, or vandalism, you should make a police report immediately. Your insurance company will likely ask for a copy of the report.
- Document your loss. When safe to do so, take photos of your vehicle and yourself (if you were injured). Obtain contact information for any witnesses and begin keeping records relating to medical treatment and related expenses..
- Contact your insurance company. Begin the claims process by contacting your insurance company to report your loss and any injuries incurred by you or others. An adjuster will likely be assigned to come out and view your vehicle to prepare an estimate of the damages.
- Obtain independent estimates. Contrary to what many people believe, you are not required to accept the estimate prepared by your insurance company. If your vehicle was damaged or you experienced a theft, obtain your own independent estimates of the cost to repair the damage or replace the items stolen.
Do I Need a Florida Auto Insurance Claim Attorney?
If your auto insurance claim is paid in full and without delay, you do not need to contact an attorney. Unfortunately, however, auto insurance companies frequently try to avoid paying claims or lowball the amount they are willing to pay. If you believe your auto insurance provider is trying to avoid payment or appears unwilling to pay what you believe you are owed, you should consult with a Florida auto insurance claim attorney.
A Florida auto insurance claim attorney can review the terms of your policy and negotiate with the insurance company in an attempt to settle your claim. When an out of court settlement is not possible, your attorney will advocate for you in court to ensure that you receive the maximum award possible for your claim.
Will I Need to File a Lawsuit?
While the vast majority of auto insurance claims are settled without the need for litigation, if your insurance provider refuses to offer a satisfactory settlement within a reasonable amount of time, your attorney will file a lawsuit to ensure that your interests are protected.
How Much Will a Florida Auto Insurance Claim Attorney Cost?
Do not allow concerns about the cost of hiring an attorney stop you from getting legal help pursuing a valid auto insurance claim. You will not be required to pay your attorney anything upfront. Instead, a Florida auto accident attorney will only receive a fee if you receive a satisfactory settlement or award at trial.
Where Can I Get Help with My Auto Insurance Claim?
If you have filed a Florida auto insurance claim and the insurance company is refusing to pay your claim in full, we can help. Call us at 407-500-1000 or submit our online form today. One of our experienced Florida auto insurance claims attorneys will review your case and discuss your legal options with you at no cost.