Auto Insurance Claims/police report

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Expert: - 10/3/2010


Question
Auto Accident: April 22, 2010. My car toalled. Had no collision. I  have been told by State Farm(my insurance co)to  go to Small Claims Court. Alameda County, Calif.
: The police diod not take a statement from me at the time of the accident. The Police Report took the statement of the other 2 parties saying I ran a red light. I did not.

Question: Should I contact Oakland Police Department and ask that they take my statement before I go to small claims court.

Note: State Farm's adjuster subsequentlly went with me to the accident scene. There he determined that the other party was 100 percent liable, because they did not yield the right of way. He went through 2 lanes to total me and hit 2 other objects.

Answer
It would be a good idea to ask the officer to amend his police report with your statement.  If the officer refuses, complain to his sergeant.  If the sergeant refuses, keep complaining up the chain and they will probably appease you.  If the evidence if stacked against you, they may not, and it may be hard to win in court.  I'm concerned that two other drivers gave a different account.  Good luck!

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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