A car accident can leave you with medical bills, car repairs, and many questions. If Allstate covers you or the other driver, you may need to file a claim with the company. Knowing what to expect can make the process easier.
Arizona requires drivers to carry minimum amounts of liability insurance. However, having insurance does not mean every claim will be simple. You should know how to protect your rights throughout the process.
Gather Information After the Accident
Start collecting information as soon as it is safe. Good records can help Allstate understand what happened and determine the value of your claim.
Try to gather:
- Names and contact details for all drivers
- Driver’s license and insurance information
- Photos of the vehicles and the accident scene
- Contact information for witnesses
- The police report number
- Medical records and bills
- Receipts for accident-related costs
Allstate also recommends gathering photos, vehicle information, the accident location and time, and available dashcam footage. Keep copies of anything you give the insurance company.
Report the Accident To Allstate
You can start a claim through Allstate’s website or mobile app if you are an Allstate customer. If you are filing against an Allstate policy but are not a customer, Allstate says you can report the claim by calling 800-255-7828.
When reporting the crash, provide basic facts about what happened. Do not guess about details you do not know. You should also be careful about making statements concerning your injuries before you understand their full extent.
After a claim is opened, you should receive a claim number. Save this number because you may need it when speaking with the adjuster or sending documents.
What Happens After You File?
Allstate will usually assign someone to review the claim. The company may examine photos, police reports, witness statements, repair estimates, and medical records.
If your vehicle was damaged, Allstate may arrange an inspection. According to its auto claims information, drivers may be able to use an Allstate repair network shop or choose their own repair shop. Some claims may also qualify for a photo-based inspection.
The adjuster may also look at who caused the accident. Fault can affect how much money an injured person can recover under Arizona law.
Be Careful When Discussing a Settlement
An insurance adjuster may offer you money to settle your claim. Before accepting, make sure you understand what the settlement covers.
Some injuries do not become clear right away. You could also need more treatment than you first expected. Once you sign a settlement and release, you may lose the ability to seek more money for covered losses from the released parties.
Arizona law also regulates how insurance companies handle claims. For example, Arizona Revised Statutes § 20-461 addresses unfair claim settlement practices, including certain failures to reasonably investigate claims or promptly respond to claim communications.
How Long Do You Have To File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Arizona?
An insurance claim and a lawsuit are different. Negotiating with Allstate does not mean you should ignore the deadline for filing a lawsuit. Under Arizona Law, many lawsuits involving personal injuries or property damage must be filed within two years. Different deadlines or rules may apply in some cases.
Because missing a legal deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation, it can help to speak with a lawyer well before the deadline approaches.
Contact the Phoenix Car Accident Attorneys at AJ Law, PLC To Schedule a Free Consultation
Dealing with Allstate after an Arizona car accident can be difficult, especially when you are hurt. An attorney can review the crash, gather evidence, deal with the insurer, and help determine the value of your losses.
Reach out to AJ Law, PLC for help today. We proudly serve clients throughout the greater Phoenix area and communities across Arizona, with offices in Glendale, Bullhead City, and Tucson.
AJ Law, PLC – Phoenix 7201 N 7th St Suite B, Phoenix, AZ 85020 Open 24/7 (602) 671-2363
AJ Law, PLC – Glendale 5800 W Glenn Dr. Suite 130 Glendale, AZ 85301 Open 24/7 (602) 512-1280
AJ Law, PLC – Bullhead City 2580 AZ-95 #108, Bullhead City, AZ 86442 Open 24/7 (602) 507-9901
AJ Law, PLC – Tucson 300 N Main Ave #102, Tucson, AZ 85701 Open 24/7 (602) 512-1933
