How to File a Car Accident Claim With Farmers Insurance
Farmers Insurance is one of the largest auto, home and business insurance companies in the United States. Like many large corporations, Farmers Insurance is protective of its profits and always looking for ways to save its investors money. This includes undervaluing car insurance claims and offering the smallest insurance payouts possible to clients. Use these tips to protect your rights during a Farmers Insurance auto accident claim.
Take the Required Steps After a Car Accident
To protect your right to recover compensation from Farmers Insurance, fulfill all of your responsibilities as a driver after a car accident in California. This includes stopping at the scene of the crash, calling 911 to report the accident and exchanging information with the other driver. Take photographs while you are at the scene, as well. Do not confess to being at fault for the crash. Go to a doctor or hospital in Los Angeles right away after your car accident. Keep detailed notes about the crash, your injuries and your recovery.
Choose the Correct Insurance Company
The insurance company that you will rely on for financial benefits after a car accident depends on the law in your state. Like most states, California uses an at-fault insurance law. This law states that the driver or party at fault for a car crash is financially responsible, or liable. If an investigation finds that you are at fault for your car accident, you will file a claim with your own insurance provider (a first-party claim). If the other driver caused your crash, you will file a claim with his or her auto insurance provider instead (a third-party claim).
File a Claim With Farmers Insurance
If the insurance company you are using to recover financial compensation is Farmers Insurance, you can file a claim by calling (800) 515-7406 to speak to an agent directly. If you are filing with your own car insurance policy, you can find the phone number for your personal agent on your insurance card or policy. You can also start a claim online or use the Farmers mobile app. The insurance agent that you speak to or virtual system that you use will request general information about the car accident, including:
- The insurance policy number
- Your driver’s license number
- The other driver’s information
- The time, date and location of the car accident
- A description of the accident
- Descriptions of both vehicles
- Information about your injuries and property damage
Prepare this information before you begin your claim for a smoother process. The insurance representative may also request your police report number. Be sure to ask for this number before you leave the scene of your car accident. Obtaining a police report can strengthen your insurance claim by providing key information about the crash from an unbiased officer’s point of view.
Protect Your Rights
Once you file your insurance claim, you will need to navigate the recovery process in a way that protects your legal rights. Keep in mind that Farmers Insurance is not looking out for your best interests during an insurance claim. Its number one goal is to save as much money as possible by minimizing your payout.
Throughout the processing of your insurance claim, do not admit fault and do not agree to give the insurance representative or claims adjuster a recorded statement. A statement is something that can be used against you by the insurance company. Do not volunteer more information than what is requested. If you don’t know the answer to a question, say this instead of speculating. Do not sign anything sent to you by the insurance company, including a Medical Authorization Release Form.
Finally, do not accept a settlement offer from the insurance company until you have spoken to a car accident attorney. The first offer is most likely inadequate for your injuries, medical bills and property repairs. A car accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help you negotiate for fair and full financial compensation. A lawyer will help you demand maximum compensation through all available outlets.