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Whenever an accident happens, the thought of recovering all damages and loss of money done in the process is obvious. Individuals have well recognized this sense of security, and numerous insurance policies have been introduced by companies claiming all the damage coverage under certain prescribed conditions.
Although, when such an accident happens, it is hard to claim insurance even though the company is fully aware of a person’s actual condition and situation. To get the coverage, the first thing an individual needs to do is- file a claim.
The Powell Law Firm presents people with a detailed guide on everything about claiming car insurance.
Why Are Police Reports Important?
Police reports are important documents after a car accident, as they play a key role in claiming insurance for the damages done. It can be regarded as a piece of strong evidence for the damage done to a person’s vehicle and a detailed description of the situation and condition. Reports also make it easier to determine how many car accidents happen in St Louis.
The insurance companies often ask for the police report because the police act as a third party not known to both parties involved in the accident and give an unbiased account.
Can an Individual Claim Car Insurance Without a Police Report?
The short answer to this most frequently asked question is a “Yes.” Any individual can claim car insurance without a police report, especially in the case of minor accidents where the police deny filing a report.
When both parties involved in an accident are not injured, and the damages are not observable, the police can deny filing a report. In this case, both parties can sort out the situation amongst themselves and part ways.
Filing a police report is unnecessary in such a scenario. While filing a report is not mandatory, it helps to make the procedure quick. In addition, it is a source of credibility, favoring the individual willing to claim car insurance.
What Are the Requirements for Making a Claim?
When an individual is willing to claim car insurance without a police report, they should meet certain requirements and try to collect pieces of evidence that can be used to their benefit. It can be:
Taking photos or making videos of the accident scene and all those that can act as a piece of beneficiary evidence for the vehicle damage.
Collecting all the information regarding the other party involved in the case.
Gathering information of the eyewitnesses available there.
Record statements of the eyewitnesses present there at the time of the accident.
A descriptive and detailed written statement should be made by the individual willing to claim insurance. The details should include everything that they remember regarding the accident. It can describe surroundings, time, weather conditions, etc.
The individual also needs to take care of the ‘Statute of Limitations,’ which means they can only file for a claim within a fixed timeframe.
How Can a Person Claim Car Insurance Without a Police Report?
Here is a series of steps people can follow to make a claim without a police report and get their damages and loss of money covered:
The person who wishes to make a claim should first ensure that the damages are covered under the insurance policy. It is better to consult agents or motor vehicle accident lawyers in St Louis about this.
To make a claim, a person needs to visit the insurance company's website or have a conversation with the insurance to start the process.
All relevant documents should be available, including the medical bill and others. People can ask for any information.
Scheduling a suitable time for assessment of the case and continuation of the further investigation process.
After the investigation, compensation is made, and all the bills are covered.
Conclusion
While accidents can be unpredictable, they cause heavy damage and loss of money. Some accidents result from human error or negligence and, in some cases, from distracted driving. This makes the guilty liable for civil proceedings and the victim eligible for compensation.
There is no need for a police report unless it is a major accident, or it involves a crime for claiming car insurance. A suitable attorney or law firm should be consulted in case there is reluctance by the insurance company in offering the compensation. Having a good lawyer can help you understand the important aspects of car accident cases, including what is considered total loss in Missouri.