Car Insurance Matters

Every motorist involved in an accident wishes for a speedy claim processing and settlement. Insurers are always blamed if things don't go fast and smooth enough, but the fault isn't always theirs. Here are three examples of things that you may do that can complicate your claim or even make the insurer deny it: 

Insufficient coverage

You may have all the papers ready and make your claim on time, but you aren't going to get enough money to cover all your losses and liabilities if you have insufficient coverage. Every type of coverage has a limit your settlement claim can't exceed. Consider an example where you have a $5,000 limit on your collision coverage, and you suffer damage worth $7,000. The amount you will receive won't be adequate for your damage since you have been paying premiums worth only a $5,000 limit.

Lying When Buying Your Policy

Auto insurance carriers ask for lots of information when issuing quotes for premiums. They use the information, which include things like age, size of household, and occupation, to calculate premiums. Thus, if you didn't give the correct information, then you haven't been paying the correct premiums. If something happens and your insurer learns that you lied, the company may deny your claim, and you will have to foot the bill. In fact, for serious lies, you may even have your policy canceled.

Failing to Read and Understand Your Policy

You have been paying your premiums faithfully, but do you know what you are paying for? All policies have attached terms and conditions, and it's human nature not to "bother" too much with the fine print, especially when everything is running smoothly. Unfortunately, this may complicate matters for you when making a claim, and the adjuster points out the relevant sections of the policy affecting your claim.

Consider an example where you have a policy that includes bodily injury liability insurance. Suppose you get injured in a car crash, and you turn to your bodily injury liability insurance when your Medical Payment Coverage does not cover all your medical needs. This would be a mistake, and you won't get the payment because bodily injury liability insurance doesn't cover you, it covers other people who may be injured due to your negligent driving.

Take your time when applying for auto insurance and consider speaking to an experienced specialist, such as Senella Insurance Group. Understand what the policy is offering, and don't be afraid to ask as many questions as possible before starting to pay your premiums. That way you will avoid most problems that plague claim processing.