You can expect some type of property damage, whether you have a cracked windshield, bent axle, or worse. Property damage is not limited to your car. You can also damage personal property like watches, glasses and phones as well as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and sports equipment. It is important to file an insurance claim if property damage has occurred to get compensation.
STEPS FOR FILING A PROPERTY DAMAGE INSURANCE CLAIM
1) COMPLETE A SR-1 FORMAT
To report an automobile accident involving more than $1000.00 in property damage or injuries, you must fill out an SR-1 form. You must complete the form as completely as possible, and submit it to the DMV within 10 working days. The DMV may contact you if you don’t provide complete information about your insurance. However, your license will be suspended for lack of insurance. If you have not been provided a form by your local DMV office or insurance company, please contact us for one.
- It is important to take photos of your vehicle’s damage (both interior and exterior) and to write down all details about the accident. Send us copies of any documentation relating to your accident immediately.
2) CONTACT INSURANCE
Your claim against an insurance company is made up of two parts. The first is your property damage claim. The second is your personal injury claim. Your motor vehicle and personal property that was damaged in an accident will be covered by the property damage claim. Personal injury is the most complex of the two and covers all injuries that are related to the claim.
- Property damage is usually simpler and more straightforward. This is why it is not necessary or usual for an attorney to be involved in this portion of the claim. The majority of property damage cases are resolved within 30 days. It is highly recommended that you contact your insurance company immediately to inquire about reimbursement for damage to your vehicle or personal belongings.
- Call your insurance company’s property damage adjuster or the responsible party’s insurer and arrange for an adjuster who will inspect the damage and take photographs. You may need to bring your vehicle to the auto shop chosen by the insurance company for a damage assessment if it is still able to drive.
3) GET ESTIMATES
We recommend that you obtain multiple property damage estimates from reputable bodies shops before making any decisions about who will do the repairs or settling your property loss claim. You will be able to talk with the adjuster about property damage settlement. You may be able to negotiate with the body shop to have the repairs completed at a specific cost.
Summarized from an article by Kuvara Law Firm.
