Auto Insurance Claims/Small Wreck

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Expert: - 8/30/2008


Question
About a month ago, I was turning in a double turning lane on the outside lane. The inside lane driver decided to go straight and I turned into the backside of the driver. Once getting out of the road we turned into the corner convenience store to look at the damage. After seeing that it wasn't anything major we decided to not call the police and exchange info. Come to find out, the young man was driving his roommates car and gave me his drivers license info and the insurance that belonged to that car. We kept in touch and even went to the body shop and got an estimate and he agreed to pay in full at a later time. Well since then I have lost touch with him and would like to file a claim. Is it possible with no police report, no witness, and only his license number to still file a claim after a month?

Answer
Sure, there is no reason why you cannot file a claim.  Make sure you give the insurance company all of the information so they can pursue recovery from the negligent driver after they handle your claim.

Next time, it would be better to file the claim sooner as people often change their minds after making promises at an accident scene.

Auto Insurance Claims

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Claims Guy

Expertise

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Experience

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.

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