How to File a Car Accident Claim with Allstate
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough without the added burden of dealing with insurance claims. If you or the other driver has Allstate coverage, they’ll be central to recovering compensation for your crash.
Texas drivers should understand the claims process before they need to use it. Keep reading to learn more about what to do after an accident if you or the other driver is insured by Allstate.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident
After a crash, check on everyone involved and call 911 if anyone needs medical help. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor soon.
While still at the scene, gather as much information as you can, including:
- Insurance information. Get the other driver’s policy number, insurance company name, and contact details.
- Driver’s license numbers. Write down license numbers for all drivers involved.
- Photos of the scene. Take pictures of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
- Witness contacts. Get names and phone numbers from anyone who saw what happened.
- Police report number. Ask the responding officer how to obtain a copy of the accident report.
This evidence becomes crucial when the insurance company reviews your claim. The more details you have, the harder it is for Allstate to dispute your account of what happened.
Filing Your Claim with Allstate
Once everyone who needs immediate medical care has received it, you’ll want to officially file your claim with Allstate.
The company offers several ways to report a car accident and start the claims process. You can call their claims line, available around the clock. You can also file online via the Allstate website or the Allstate mobile app. Some people prefer to contact their local Allstate agent directly.
Try to file your claim within 24 hours of the accident. When you report, stick to the basic facts. Tell them what happened without guessing about fault or making statements that could hurt your case later.
After you file, Allstate will assign you a claim number and an adjuster. The adjuster will contact you to gather more details about the accident. Keep records of every conversation you have with the insurance company, including the date, time, and topics discussed.
What to Know About Dealing with Insurance Adjusters
Insurance adjusters work for Allstate, not for you. Their job is to investigate claims and settle them for as little money as possible. While adjusters may seem friendly and helpful, remember that their goal is to protect the company’s bottom line.
Here are some general tips to keep in mind:
- Be careful about recorded statements. You are not required to give one, and anything you say could be used to reduce your payout.
- Avoid discussing your injuries in detail until you know the full extent of your medical needs. Saying you feel “fine” early on could come back to haunt you if problems develop later.
- Don’t sign a medical release that gives Allstate access to your entire medical history. They may try to blame your injuries on a prior condition rather than the accident.
- Only provide records directly related to your crash injuries.
You can always consult an attorney if you feel uncertain about handling the insurance company on your own.
When Settlement Offers Fall Short
Allstate will likely make an initial settlement offer after reviewing your claim. This first offer is rarely the full value of your case. Insurance companies often start low to see if you’ll accept less than you deserve.
Before accepting any offer, calculate your total damages. You don’t have to take the first offer. Counter with evidence that supports a higher amount. Medical records, repair estimates, and wage statements all help prove the true cost of your accident.
Time Limits for Filing a Lawsuit
If negotiations with Allstate stall, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover fair compensation. Texas has strict deadlines for personal injury cases. Texas typically gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage.
Contact Our Friendswood Car Accident Lawyers at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Filing a car accident claim with Allstate doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you know what to expect. If Allstate denies your claim, offers too little, or drags out the process, you have options. Consulting an attorney can help you understand your rights and the potential value of your claim.
Call The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. Our Friendswood car accident lawyers can deal with the insurance company on your behalf while you focus on getting better.
Please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers to get a free initial consultation today. We have offices in Friendswood and Galveston, Texas:
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Galveston Office
2101 Mechanic St. Suite 253
Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 207-9299
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Friendswood Office
312 S. Friendswood Dr.
Friendswood, TX 77546
281-992-8633
