Reader question:

I am not satisfied with my car insurance claim handling. What do I do?

Jairo

Thanks for asking.

Your car insurance claim handling is extremely important because of the amount of money that it involves and also its effect on your future. The number one thing you need to think about is that if you have a problem with the process, do not back down, do not cower and give in. If you are in the right and your car insurance company does not see that, there are ways to solve it.

• Just start off by telling your car insurance agent about it. Sometimes it is really an innocent mistake that you are dealing with and a quick phone call can solve it all. If this doesn’t work, most car insurance company have a complaint line. And if that doesn’t worth either, you should get in touch with whoever is at the top of the claim’s department.
• You can just complain about something without evidence to back up your side. Keep track of the whole claims process and your dealings with the car insurance company. If you think that they are not giving you the right adjustment amount, then you need to have documentation to make you up. Write a letter with your name, claim number and phone number, with your documentation as well.
• Read your policy. If things get out of hand you might need to consider getting your claim arbitrated or mediated. Almost all companies offer this option, but always check your car insurance policy first.
• Complain to your state’s department of insurance. Normally you can call it in or fill out a form on their website. You will need supporting documents for this, too.
• Get in tough with an arbitrator. Check out what is recommended by the American Arbitration Association to choose the best one.
• Get a lawyer. Normally your state’s bar will be able to give you a recommendation for the best attorney to deal with a car accident claim.

Cheers,

Fashun Guadarrama.