The Importance of Documenting Your Insurance Claim: Tips for Keeping Accurate Records
Properly documenting an insurance claim can determine if and how fast an insurance company settles a claim. An adjuster may appear to be working with you, offering help and the possibility of an easy settlement, but their priority is to minimize payouts. Accurately documenting your claim is essential, not only for yourself but for legal representation in insurance bad faith claims.
Work with a team that proactively secures an insurance claim with accurate documentation, holding the insurance industry accountable while helping victims ensure maximum compensation.
The Importance of Documentation
Documentation in an insurance claim tells a story. A stressful incident can contribute to an individual forgetting essential details. When appropriately recorded, the documentation accurately describes an event and records any information related to an event, preventing an overwhelming situation of robbing you of the compensation you deserve.
Accurate Record Keeping
What information should you collect to ensure accurate records to document your claim? These tips will help you compile vital information to support your claim.
Photos
Photos capture proof of damages, whether your car, home, or body was injured. Taking pictures immediately after a damaging event can also prevent someone from claiming additional harm as the result of the accident that just occurred. Photos documenting bodily injury can capture the severity of damages and offer proof after you begin healing.
With most phones having cameras, accurately documenting the date and time is possible. Before and after photos offer proof of damages. Cataloging your valuables through pictures or video in a walk-through of your home is recommended.
Finally, if your injuries prevented you from taking photos, you can request photos taken by law enforcement if you are involved in an accident.
Medical Records
Keeping a copy of any medical records can not only document the costs incurred during an injury but can detail the extent of the damage suffered. Also include the date and number of trips to and from a physician’s office to record travel expenses.
Correspondence
Dedicate a notebook and a file on your computer to jot down any conversations you may have with your insurance company, adjusters, or other significant individuals involved in your claim. Noting the date, time, and who you spoke with prevents an unnecessary chase and allows you to continue critical conversations.
Additionally, if there are witnesses that can verify the information, write down their names and contact information. A witness can offer a different perspective from someone involved in an accident.
Receipts and Important Papers
Designate a folder for receipts to document expenses and keep track of important papers such as police reports. To further secure your documents, scan them into your computer or phone for a digital copy.
Time
A statute of limitations governs most claims. It is critical to begin documenting your claim immediately. Denial of a claim will most likely occur when it is submitted past the allowed timeframe.
Your insurance policy coverage will dictate time limits for filing a claim. Also, each state has established limits in pursuing personal injury claims.
Prioritizing your Arizona or San Diego, California Insurance Claim
Over 50 years of combined experience have taught Dawson & Rosenthal, P.C. the importance of thorough documentation in an insurance claim. Our extensive documentation can begin the sooner a victim reaches out. Losing valuable time and information should never play a role in the outcome of your claim.