Understanding The Insurance Claims Process In California

Starting An Insurance Claim After A Car Crash

The worst way to start an insurance claim is by trying to handle it on your own. The best way is to contact your attorney immediately. Allow us to communicate with the insurance company and, if necessary, the courts on your behalf. We’ll ensure that every statement made, especially over the phone, is accurate and works in your favor.

Insurance companies are skilled at using your own words against you, often recording calls to exploit any inconsistencies. For example, they may ask in several different ways whether you’re injured or feeling fine, trying to elicit responses they can later use to dispute your claim. Insurers often contact accident victims right away, knowing that shock can mask injuries, hoping to lock you into statements that downplay the severity of your condition.

This is why you must exercise extreme caution when speaking with your insurer. Better yet, let an experienced personal injury attorney handle the communication entirely.

The Information You Need To Provide When Filing A Claim

Filing an insurance claim requires some basic information:

• Your name
• The date of the accident
• The at-fault party’s insurance information
• Details of the injuries you’ve sustained

While this may seem simple, it’s critical to have this information especially the medical details reviewed by an attorney before submission. Misstatements or incomplete descriptions can be misinterpreted or intentionally twisted by the insurer to minimize your claim. With legal guidance, you can ensure your claim is filed properly, avoiding potential pitfalls and protecting your right to fair compensation.

What You Should (And Shouldn’t) Say To An Insurance Company During The Claims Process

When dealing with an insurance company after an accident, knowing what to say and what to avoid is critical to protecting your claim.

What You Should Say

• Clearly describe all your injuries, even minor ones, as they may worsen over time.
• Explain how the accident occurred, sticking to the facts without speculating.
• Share any relevant details about what the other party stated at the scene.
• Provide third-party insurance information and photos of the damage if available.

What You Should Not Say

• Do not apologize for the accident, even out of politeness; this could be interpreted as admitting fault.
• Do not lie or misstate facts, as this can undermine your credibility.
• Do not downplay your pain or injuries, even if you feel they aren’t severe.
• Do not exaggerate your injuries, as this can be used to discredit you.
• Never agree to a settlement before consulting a lawyer.

Attorney Kevin Levian is a vocal California personal injury lawyer whose own severe car accident injury experience inspired him to dedicate his practice to helping other accident victims. By working with them on their personal injury claims, Kevin has achieved strong success both in negotiations and in the courtrooms of California.

Have you been injured or hurt in a California car crash? Having difficulties dealing with an insurance company? Contact Kevin Levian today to schedule a free initial consultation.

Pro Tip: Let Your Personal Injury Lawyer Handle The Negotiations On Your Behalf

Navigating insurance negotiations is what we do best. With an attorney on your side, the insurance company is more likely to negotiate fairly, knowing we can and will file a lawsuit if necessary. This pressure often leads to significantly higher settlement offers than you could secure on your own.

I’ve seen heartbreaking cases where accident victims suffered severe injuries unable to walk or get through their day without pain but had already signed a settlement agreement with the insurance company. Even if the settlement was for a shockingly low amount, such as $200 and a massage, that signature made it nearly impossible to pursue further compensation. While unfair, this is completely legal and underscores why working with an attorney is essential.

Don’t let this happen to you. With an attorney on your side, we’ll fight for you and secure the compensation you deserve often 10 to 100 times more than what you’d receive without legal representation.

What To Do When Your Claim Gets Denied

A denied claim can feel like a major setback, but it’s not the end of the road. The first step is to have an experienced attorney review the denial and identify the reason behind it. Common reasons include:

• Disputed liability: Is the insurer claiming you were at fault for the accident?
• Coverage issues: Were there questions about who was insured, or was the driver not listed on the policy?
• Third-party insurance problems: Is the other party’s insurer disputing their liability or refusing coverage?

Once we determine why your claim was denied, we’ll investigate further to ensure the insurance company isn’t acting unfairly or in bad faith. Insurers often look for ways to minimize payouts, but with legal representation, we can push back against any improper practices.

Have You Been Speaking To An Insurance Adjuster? Stop, And Call An Attorney!

For more information on The Insurance Claims Process In California, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (888) 694-8869 today.