When it comes to filing a claim with your insurance company, there are two types. The two types include first and third party claims. You must file a claim when you experience an unexpected disaster or incident. When filing a claim you must file a claim with the insurance company of the person or entity at fault.
Your disaster can include property damage from a storm, a pipe bursting in your home, and more. A claim can be filed for your home, business or commercial property. As you consider filing a claim we recommend getting need the help of an experienced first party claims attorney.
Understanding First and Third Party Claims
First party claims are filed to your insurance company. Third party claims are filed with another person’s or entity’s insurance company.
A claim is an alternative way to get compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. Your losses can include medical bills, wages and compromised health. If you opt to not file a first party claim you’ll need an experienced personal injury attorney in Deerfield Beach, Florida. A personal injury attorney can handle your case and directly pursue compensation from whoever is at fault.
How to Determine Fault
Determining fault can be simple or vague. If you have caused the accident, you’ll need to file a first party claim with your insurer. For example, if you are texting while driving and cause a car crash and hit the car in front of you, you’ll be at fault.
But if you are injured do to negligence of another person or entity you’ll need to file a third party claim. For example, if you fall due to an unmarked step or slip due to sitting water that has yet to be picked up.
Insurance Claims and Processes
When it comes to filing your claim every insurance company’s process varies. Most of the processes include:
- Filing a claim within 24 hours of the injury or incident
- Get assigned a claims number to make it easier to follow your case
- Connect with your claims adjuster or person that will be managing your case
- Provide a statement about what happened
Your initial contact with the insurance company plays a vital role in your case. Speaking with an experienced first claims attorney is essential. Your attorney will protect your rights and help you get the settlement you deserve.
Understanding Compensation
When it comes to filing a claim your settlement is determined based on various factors. These factors include the strength of your case, who is at fault, and the coverage of your insurance. As part of your case you’ll be required to provide a demand letter.
Your demand letter will detail why you are filing a claim and your desired settlement. Your insurance adjuster typically handles your demand letter. But, getting the help of a first claims attorney in Deerfield Beach, Florida is highly recommended. An experienced attorney can help ensure that your claim is settled fairly.
If/When the insurance provider concludes that your losses or property damage is covered you can expect one or all of the following:
- Offer you a lump sum of money that you request in your demand letter
- Offer you less money than your requested amount in your demand letter
- Deny your claim in its entirety and offer you nothing
Since writing a demand letter and negotiating with an insurance company is a complicated process, it is highly recommended you consult with an attorney before doing either one.
Reasons Claims Can Be Denied
When it comes to handling your claim is it important to be prepared to face challenges. Settling claims is not always in the best interest of insurance companies. Therefore many insurance companies will work hard to prevent settlement or delay a settlement.
Common reasons for settlement include:
- Delaying or denying compensation without reason
- Failure to promptly acknowledge or reply to a claim
- Failure to perform a thorough investigation into the claim
- Offering less than a reasonable amount of settlement
- Not providing adequate information about the appeals and settlement process
- Failure to provide settlement
Get Help From An Experienced First Claims Attorney
When filing a claim it is important to speak to an experienced first claims attorney in Deerfield Beach, Florida. Many insurance providers work hard to settle for the least amount of compensation. They may delay your case and create confusion as well. A first claims attorney works to settle your case quickly and ensure you receive the settlement you deserve.
