One of the most controversial issues regarding Ottawa auto insurance is the claim. This is the ultimate reason why you’re getting the policy in the first place. You want your insurance company to help pay for the damages or injuries you’ve sustained during collision and for the repair of your vehicle.
However, not everybody is able to take advantage of their Ottawa auto insurance claims, simply because they don’t know how they work. To ensure that this doesn’t happen to you, here are some things you should always remember:
It’s your right and responsibility to learn more about claims. Even before you purchase your policy, you should have a clear idea of the claiming process and how your claim will be calculated. Your broker will normally tell you the steps, but there are times when certain information may be forgotten to be shared. Don’t be afraid to ask or clear out certain issues. Remember that if a large claim arises, any process will follow the small print on the policy. Again, ensure that you clearly understand all aspects of a policy before you buy Ottawa auto insurance.
Know any time limits. This explains why there are others who cannot make full use of their Ottawa auto insurance. They filed for a claim after the designated time limit. Usually, you are given until 90 days to submit your proof of loss, which is a written declaration, and under documents that can support your claim. Some companies may extend the limit up to a year—that is, if you have reasonable reason for your delay.
However, it’s advisable to file for the claim as soon as possible. In fact, you may want to call your broker or agent right after the accident or injury if you can do so. This way, you can still your story as accurately as possible.
Contact the other party’s insurer. If you like to file a claim against the insurance policy of the other party, especially if he or she is the one at fault, you must notify the person as soon as possible. Moreover, you should also call his or her insurance company. It’s hard to assume that he or she will take responsibility for you.
This also means that before you leave the accident scene, make sure that you can already exchange information with the other party. If you are unconscious, you can inquire of relevant information from the police.
Work with the claims adjuster. This is the person in the insurance company who is responsible in assessing and processing your claim. Thus, he or she is the person you should look for if you’re going to submit your documents and when you want to make a follow-up on your claim.
You have to take note that this individual may try to negotiate the claim, so make sure you’ve kept all details – in writing if possible – as this will help their job in justifying the claim.
