This is Kentucky Injury Attorney Tate Meagher with Meagher Injury Lawyers. So you want to know how to pursue a property damage claim for your vehicle against the other driver’s insurance company following an automobile accident.
Establishing Liability
First, it’s important to remember that the other driver must be liable for the accident and their insurer must accept liability before they agree to pay you anything for any of your property damage. Because of this, it’s crucial to give your statement to the police officer at the scene of the accident so that your version of the accident is documented on the police report. Obtain a copy of the police report when it’s ready and then send it to the other driver’s insurance company. Additionally, take photos of the accident scene and the property damage to all vehicles involved, as this might help you prove liability in your case.
Filing the Insurance Claim
Second, file an insurance claim with the other driver’s insurance for your property damage. It’s also wise to call the police after the motor vehicle accident. The police typically will gather insurance information from all drivers involved in the accident and put that insurance information on the police report. However, also be sure to exchange insurance information at the scene with the other driver in case the police do not record that information on the police report, which occasionally happens.
Getting a Repair Estimate
Next, get a repair estimate unless it is very obvious your vehicle is a total loss. The other driver’s insurer will likely send out someone to look at your vehicle and appraise the cost of repairs. Don’t solely rely on their estimate. Take your vehicle to a place of your choosing to get a repair estimate as well. If your estimated cost of repairs is higher, send the repair estimate report to the insurance adjuster for the other driver.
Handling Difficulties with the Insurance Company
Lastly, if the other driver’s insurance is giving you a difficult time or you feel that they are low-balling you, keep in mind that if you have collision coverage on your auto insurance policy that covers property damage to your vehicle, you can file a claim for the damage with your own insurance company. You may have a deductible, but keep in mind that deductible can be recovered by your insurance company and thus you can be reimbursed for your deductible once your insurance company seeks reimbursement from the other driver’s insurance company. It’s been my experience that your own insurer will treat you more fairly than the other driver’s insurer, so this is certainly an option you might want to take advantage of.
Conclusion
Remember, if you have been injured in an accident in Kentucky, don’t wait—call Tate. Also, feel free to subscribe to my YouTube channel and watch more of my videos. Thank you.
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