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How to File a Property Damage Claim in Massachusetts (Part A)

A car accident can be frightening even when no one is seriously injured. If your car was seriously damaged in the crash, you may need to file a Massachusetts property damage claim to ensure you are compensated for your vehicle. Your own insurance company may not offer an adequate settlement for your repair expenses or may ask you to file a claim with the other driver's insurance instead. It all adds up to a very frustrating experience.

It is best to know how to document your Massachusetts car accident and how to properly file a property damage claim in Massachusetts.

What to Do After a Massachusetts Car Accident

There are several things you should keep in mind after being involved in a Massachusetts car accident that will help make filing a property damage claim easier. The Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation recommends that you keep the following items in your glove compartment:

  • a disposable camera
  • a first aid kit
  • a tape measure
  • blank police reports or accident diagrams

In order to file a successful Massachusetts property claim, it is important to make sure that you gather as much information as possible in regards to your car accident. When you file a police report, check to ensure the police report is accurate. Write down the name and insurance information of the other driver involved as well as the contact information of any witness(es). Finally, and most importantly, write down your account of your car accident as soon as you can.

Remember that anything you say or do after your car accident can affect your claim. Fighting with the other driver or even apologizing can be used against you at a later date.

When to Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company promptly after your car accident. They will send you forms to fill out regarding your accident and you should provide them with a copy of the police report. An assessor will estimate the repair costs, and you will be offered compensation depending on your insurance coverage.

Massachusetts has compulsory insurance, but you may look into adding some optional coverage to your plan.
Collision insurance will pay for any damage your car sustained during your accident. Limited collision insurance will cover damage in some situations, but only if the insured was found to be less than 50% responsible for the crash.

If you do not have collision coverage, you will need to file a property damage claim with the other driver's insurance company
. Be cautious, and never sign any settlement offer from an insurance company without having it looked over by a Massachusetts personal injury attorney first. Signing any paperwork may waive your future right to seek any other damages related to your car accident.

An experienced Massachusetts car accident lawyer can tell you if your settlement contains all of the compensation to which you are entitled
. If you believe your settlement is inadequate, contact Phillips & Garcia for your FREE legal consultation - (877) 892-5620.

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