When you’re in a car accident, assuming there are no injuries, the first thing you want to know is how you’re going to get the damages repaired. It should, in theory, be as simple as sending it to the insurance company and having it taken care of. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. There are a number of steps that are fairly standard, however, and knowing these can get you off to a good start. Learn some valuable tips for getting your car repaired after an accident, and when to call on the services of an Odessa car accident attorney for help.
The First Steps
The first steps are the same as with any accident: exchange information with the other driver. Get their contact and insurance information. Contact your insurance company and arrange to have the damages reviewed and taken care of. Sometimes your insurance company may cover it and pursue compensation from the other company. Others, you may have to deal with the other driver’s insurer. Either way, this is where it all begins.
Policy Limits
Of course, the amount you can recover from an insurance company has limits. If your car has suffered $10,000 in damages, but the other party is only insured up to $8,000 in liability coverage, that’s where things will cut off. You may have insurance for underinsured or uninsured drivers on your policy that can cover the difference, but if not, you could run into problems.
The Value of Your Car
Another important limit is the Kelley Blue Book or current market value of your car. An insurer only has to pay up to this amount maximum, and if they “total” your car or declare it a total loss, they will pay what they deem to be the current value and take the car to resell. This could present a problem for those who can’t afford to be without a vehicle.
Negotiating with the Insurer
After you submit your claim, the insurer will look over your vehicle and come back with an offer for estimated repairs. You have the right to use your own mechanic, which could be a source of contention regarding repairs and estimates. Sometimes your mechanic will be able to work things out for the difference. Others, you may need to pursue other avenues.
Call an Odessa Car Accident Attorney
Sometimes you simply can’t come to an agreement with the insurance company and things elevate to the level of you needing to file suit. When this happens, your best choice is to contact a qualified Odessa car accident attorney.
Lawyers have a great deal of experience and knowledge in dealing with insurance company tactics for avoiding payouts and will make sure that you get the damages covered to the fullest extent possible under the law.
If you have been in an accident in Texas, an attorney can help you work out compensation. Contact Braker White to discuss the details of your case, and get on the road to the financial settlement you deserve and to which you’re entitled.
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