Homeowners Insurance Claims Process
When filing a Alabama home insurance claim your insurance company will send out a insurance adjuster whose job is to survey the damage to your home and create an insurance report listing all damages and estimating the cost of your home repairs. One thing to remember is that these adjusters work for the insurance company, not you.
Preparing and planning in advance of a catastrophic incident is to your advantage. Keep detailed records of your belongings especially the more expensive items. Photos and or videos showing the content of your home can be especially helpful in the event of a claims dispute. Always keep a copy of your homeowners insurance policy in a secure place such as a fireproof safe, or give a copy to a trusted friend or relative. Knowing what your policy covers is a key advantage. Never rely solely on what your claims adjuster states as being covered or not covered. Always try and make temporary repairs if possible to prevent further damage. If you are dissatisfied with the claims adjusters estimate, get a second opinion. If you are still not sure if your getting the best deal, you may wish to contact a insurance claims lawyer.
Car Insurance Claims Process
When filing an auto accident claim in Alabama you must be very careful as to what you say so as not to jeopardize your claim. Always stick the facts as you know them and never ever speculate as to injuries or fault. A simple statement such as telling the insurance adjuster that you suffered no injuries may come back to haunt you days later when you discover you have indeed suffered injuries. Always let the insurer know that you may need medical attention at a later date. In todays modern age many insurers will ask you to take a picture of the damaged auto and that they will base their payout based on the observed damage. Always ask for the claims adjuster to come and do a visual inspection of the damages. Although it is said a picture is worth a thousand words, a picture may not show underlying frame or mechanical damage.
Some insurance companies may have preferred body shops that they recommend to you. In most instances your satisfaction for the repairs is guaranteed when using these shops. Often times people may take their auto to a neighborhood repair shop and have it repaired. Once you accept the check for payment you may have no recourse if your shop has not properly repaired your car other than to file suit against the repair shop that you have chosen.
Alabama Car Insurance Law
In more complex collisions where people have been injured or multiple cars are involved the claims adjuster or the insurance companies attorney may ask for interviews or statements. Be careful during these interviews, often times statements made may be taken out of context and used against you at a later date. Last but not least, make sure you understand your rights. In these complex cases it is always to your advantage to be represented by a auto insurance lawyer.
Bad Faith Insurance Claim
Insurance laws provide that insurance companies act in good faith when settling your claim. Denying or delaying payment of claims may constitute insurance fraud. If you feel as if your insurer is not acting in a proper fashion and settling your claim in a just and timely fashion you may wish to consult with a bad faith insurance claim lawyer on our site.