Don’t make these car insurance claim mistakes

A car accident is every bit as scary as it sounds. Not only do you have concerns about your health and well-being, but the same holds true in regard to the impact on your financial situation.

Unfortunately, many people make things worse by making a car insurance claim mistake. They think they’re doing the right thing, but in all actuality they’re taking steps that put them in a worse position.

Here are a few car insurance claim mistakes that have plagued others:

• Providing an insurance company with a written or recorded statement before first understanding your rights and policy. You are not required to provide a statement, so don’t let anyone force you into doing so.
• Accepting the first estimate. It’s easy to go down this path, as you want to put the crash in the past as soon as possible. However, don’t overlook the fact that an insurance company may give you a low ball offer with the hope that you will go away.
• Accepting a check marked as final payment. If you do this, you truly are taking a final payment.
• Ignoring the policy you have been paying for. Remember this: You have a contract with your insurance company. Even if they don’t comply at first, they are obligated to live up to the contents of the contract. You should never give in and let your insurer off the hook. They have a legal obligation to provide the coverage you have been paying for.

These are the types of car insurance claim mistakes that can make things even more difficult on you.