Auto accidents are stressful, and dealing with insurance companies afterward can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from injuries, facing vehicle repairs, and wondering how your bills will be paid. If you were involved in a car crash in Washington, D.C., it’s important to understand how the auto insurance claims process works and what to expect along the way.
Whether you’re filing a claim with your own insurer or the other driver’s, navigating the process correctly can significantly impact your compensation. Here’s what you need to know from Simeone & Miller about how insurance handles auto accident claims.
Step 1: Reporting the Accident
The first step is to report the accident to the appropriate insurance company. If another driver was at fault, you may file a third-party claim with their insurance provider. If you’re at fault or if the at-fault party is uninsured, you may need to file a first-party claim with your own insurer under your collision or uninsured motorist coverage.
In Washington, D.C., which follows no-fault insurance laws for minor accidents, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage may initially cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket costs, regardless of who caused the crash.
Step 2: Assigning an Insurance Adjuster
Once the claim is filed, the insurance company assigns a claims adjuster to your case. This person investigates the accident, reviews police reports, contacts witnesses, evaluates vehicle damage, and determines the extent of liability and coverage. Their goal? To resolve your claim, often for as little money as possible.
The adjuster may request a recorded statement or medical records. Be cautious here. It’s best to speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement or signing anything, especially when dealing with the other driver’s insurance company.
Step 3: Damage Assessment and Vehicle Repairs
If your car was damaged, the insurance company will arrange an inspection to assess repair costs. They may recommend using an approved body shop, but you typically have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired.
If the vehicle is considered totaled—meaning repair costs exceed its market value—you’ll be offered a payout based on its fair market value before the accident. Disputes over valuation are common, and you can negotiate or present evidence to support a higher figure.
Step 4: Medical Treatment and Injury Evaluation
If you sustained injuries, it’s important to continue medical treatment and follow your doctor’s instructions. Insurance companies often look for gaps in treatment or signs that you’re no longer injured. Once you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI)—the point at which your condition has stabilized—you or your attorney can calculate damages.
These may include:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Your lawyer can use medical records, employment documents, and expert opinions to justify your claim for compensation.
Step 5: Settlement Negotiations
Once the insurer evaluates the claim, they’ll offer a settlement. Initial offers are usually low, hoping you’ll accept quickly. However, you are not obligated to accept. You can negotiate a higher amount or reject the offer outright.
Working with an attorney increases your chances of receiving a fair settlement. An experienced car accident lawyer can present a strong case, negotiate aggressively, and know when it’s time to take the claim to court.
Step 6: Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
If the insurance company denies your claim or refuses to offer a fair amount, you may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Washington, D.C., the statute of limitations for filing most car accident lawsuits is three years from the date of the crash.
Litigation may involve depositions, discovery, expert witnesses, and eventually a trial. While most claims settle before reaching a courtroom, having a lawyer prepared to litigate shows insurers you mean business.
Common Issues with Insurance Claims
Unfortunately, insurance companies aren’t always fair. Common tactics they use to minimize payouts include:
- Delaying the claims process
- Blaming you for the accident
- Offering lowball settlements
- Misrepresenting policy limits or coverage
Don’t face this alone. An experienced attorney can protect your rights, handle communications, and ensure the insurer plays by the rules.
Why Choose Simeone & Miller, LLP?
At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we understand how frustrating and confusing the insurance process can be after a car accident. Our Washington, D.C.-based personal injury attorneys have helped thousands of clients navigate claims, challenge denied coverage, and secure the compensation they deserve. We’re committed to standing up to insurance companies and protecting injury victims throughout the D.C. area.
Contact a Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you were involved in an auto accident and have questions about how to deal with the insurance company, we can help. Call Simeone & Miller, LLP today for a free consultation and let our legal team handle the insurance battle while you focus on healing.
