Like any other business, Allstate gets mixed reviews – some praise their services and coverage while some are not so happy. If you look up customer reviews, you’ll find a few people complaining about Allstate not paying claims. Some reviews are focused on how expensive they are. In fact, Allstate’s coverage costs 29% more than the national average.
Despite many people’s poor experience and being more expensive than others, many still get insurance coverage from Allstate. Allstate Corporation is the country’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer. For this reason, so many people still get insurance despite its rating as one of the worst insurers in the U.S.
If you’ve been in a car accident and must file a claim with Allstate, imagine how stressful that can be. Do not worry; this article will provide tips on filing an auto accident claim with Allstate. We’ll cover the steps, from securing required documents to communication strategies and maximizing your compensation.
What You Can Expect With Allstate and Your Insurance Policy
Allstate is known for offering a range of services and claims. They have a reputation for excellent customer service and quality coverage. However, based on customers’ personal experiences, that may not always hold true. In fact, they are known in the industry as a company that always drives a hard bargain. So, when you file your claim, remember that Allstate will always provide a highly unreasonable first offer. Be firm and persistent in negotiating with them to get a fair settlement.
You can’t go wrong with arming yourself with a better understanding of your insurance policy and the claims process involved if you’re involved in a car accident. First, know your policy’s coverage deductibles, limits, and exclusions. This will help you understand what injuries are covered and what damages you can seek. Allstate has different coverages for auto insurance – liability, collision, comprehensive, medical payments, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Depending on your state, you may be required to have liability coverage that covers damages you may cause to other people and their properties. Drivers must have at least $15,000 liability coverage per person and $30,000 per accident. Collision coverage is optional. However, if you have an expensive car, you may find this beneficial as it covers damages to your vehicle caused by a collision, no matter who is at fault.
If you want protection against non-collision damages to your car, insurance with comprehensive coverage is what you need. This is perfect for you if you live in an area prone to natural calamities, vandalism, or theft. Another non-mandatory coverage is the uninsured/underinsured, which covers damages resulting from an accident where a driver involved has not enough coverage or no insurance. You can also get a PIP (personal injury protection) and medical payments coverage to cover your lost wages and medical expenses.
Prepare to File a Claim With Allstate
Despite the bad reviews, filing a car accident claim with Allstate is relatively easy. There are several ways to do it: filing it online on their website, calling their 24/7 claims service, or using their mobile app. You can also report the claim directly to your agent. Then, an insurance adjuster will investigate to establish the settlement value.
Keep in mind that insurance adjusters work for insurance companies. Thus, be mindful of the kind of information you share with them. They use the information you provide and enter it into a software program to create a value range for your case. Never share information that could potentially lower your compensation.
Remember to report the accident as soon as possible, whether you are at fault or not. Failing to report it promptly may result in delays or denial of your claim. Ensure you provide essential information, such as the accident’s location, date, and time. Get the other driver’s information and document the extent of damages and injuries. If police have been dispatched, you should also secure a copy of the police report and witness statements.
Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
Gathering evidence after you are in a car accident is an essential step in filing a claim. Secure as much evidence as possible – photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and pictures of car damage. Take videos, if possible. If there are witnesses to the accident, get their contact information and statements.
You should also record all your expenses concerning the injury and accident. Ensure you get a copy of your medical bill receipts, your car’s repair costs, payments for a rental car if applicable, and payslips to prove you have lost wages because of the accident. The insurance company will need all this information to calculate the amount of settlement you’ll get.
Tips to Get Maximum Compensation
Even with a valid claim, Allstate can deny or undervalue your compensation. Thus, protecting yourself against bad faith practices like delaying the process or avoiding paying the claims altogether is essential. Here are some things you can do to ensure you get fair compensation for your claims:
· Do not apologize for the accident, as the insurance adjuster might take it to mean that you’re admitting fault.
· Suppose the adjuster asks if you can provide a written or recorded statement. You must decline. Make sure to talk to a car accident lawyer about it first.
· Report the accident promptly and keep all evidence necessary in filing a claim, including medical records and car accident reports.
· Do not discuss the details of the accident with the insurance agent, and never sign any document that authorizes them to access your medical records. Keep details to yourself until you talk to a lawyer.
· Never accept any initial settlement offer. These are usually lower than you should receive once you file a claim.
Know How to Deal With an Allstate Adjuster
Though they work to ensure Allstate pays as little as possible, it is still possible to work with your insurance adjuster to facilitate your claims. Cooperate and provide the necessary information. Just don’t overshare, as mentioned above. You should be available to answer their questions to ensure your claim is processed on time and accurately.
Keep in mind that it’s okay to disagree with the adjuster’s assessment. If you think the damages are undervalued and the compensation is very low, it is within your right to negotiate.
