If you've recently filed a car accident claim with your insurance, you may think that it's as simple as putting in the claim and waiting to receive payment. However, the process isn't always as cut-and-dried as this. Insurance companies are always on high alert for the possibility that an insured may be filing a fraudulent claim or not giving all of the necessary information. That's why it's important for you to take steps to make sure that your claim is approved. Use this information to learn more about what you can do to increase the chances of your claim being paid for.
Don't Incriminate Yourself Online
The first thing you should do when you're looking to avoid getting that dreaded decline letter in the mail is watch your online behavior. Although you may think that you can say anything you want to in the virtual world, this is simply not the case. Something that you innocently post on social media could come back to haunt you.
For example, you may have filed a claim stating that you hit a deer and the front end of your car is completely ruined. You also make a claim for medical injuries, stating that you cannot walk and that you're bedridden. However, the day after filing the claim, you post a picture of yourself ice skating with friends or dancing at a bar or club. This negates your claims of physical injury or at the very least casts a shadow on them because you're doing something that is in direct opposition to what you said you were able to do.
Insurance companies work with skilled investigators who regularly police the social media accounts of claimants. That's why you should always be as honest as possible when filing a claim and avoid putting anything online that could make insurers think that you are attempting to commit fraud.
Make Sure All Drivers Are Listed
The next thing you want to do is make sure that anyone who drives your car on a regular basis is included on your policy. This is a preventative measure that can be a godsend when you need financial restitution the most.
If you're living in the house with a partner and they use your car to commute to work, add them to the policy. Your premium may go up a bit, but it will be worth it if they get into an accident and the insurance company covers it.
You have what it takes to ensure a smooth claims process from beginning to end. Start using these tips right away so you can get your auto claims covered when the unexpected occurs.
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