Top Facts To Know About Auto Insurance Claims In New York
Automobile accidents in New York State remain extremely common, which means it’s crucial to be properly informed about the car insurance claim process. According to New York State’s Department of Health, there were 12,093 hospitalizations and 1,098 deaths each year between 2012 and 2014 as a result of motor vehicle collisions. In both cases, the rates were highest among male drivers. For hospitalization, the rates were highest among those aged 20-24.
No matter how much damage you and your car have sustained following a crash, there are certain steps you should take in order to ensure everything is restored to its original state (or at least as close to this state as possible). The professionals at Expressway Collision in Staten Island can guide you through this process.
Here are some top facts to know about auto insurance claims in New York.
What To Do After A Car Accident
In New York State, no-fault claims are typically resolved by:
Obtaining a collision report, preferably at the scene.
Sending a notice of claim via certified mail to all possibly liable entities within 30 days (for most private insurance companies).
Requesting the information of all drivers involved from the DMV.
You should also seek medical attention immediately. This is important to do even if you believe you aren’t injured, as pain and other symptoms of a back or neck injury may not be apparent until several days after the accident. Should you need to undergo surgery or any type of medical procedure, be sure to retain copies of all receipts and medical billing documents to submit to your insurer. In the event of a hit-and-run collision, report this to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible (within 24 hours).
Next Step After Claim Notice
In New York, your insurer or Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) is obligated to send you an Application for Benefits, as well as a letter describing your rights, duties, and the No-Fault coverage options available. These benefits are generally paid according to prescribed fee schedules, which your healthcare provider is legally required to accept as total payment.
According to the state’s Department of Financial Services, should your insurer fail to pay a No-Fault claim within 30 days of receipt of your healthcare provider’s claim, it is required to pay 2% monthly interest on all unpaid amounts, in addition to reasonable attorney’s fees you may have incurred as part of this process. Should your request for benefits be denied or your compensation arrives late, you can generally opt to either file a complaint with the DFS, request arbitration, or take your case to court.
Contact A Reputable Collision and Auto Repair Company!
Speak to the experienced professionals at Expressway Collision in Staten Island, New York for assistance with the auto insurance claim process. We work with all major insurance providers and have a vast knowledge of how to deal with insurance claims electronically. We will work tirelessly to verify that every claim is adequately itemized and recorded and also offer digital imaging for every claim. Thus, you can expect 100% satisfaction. Call Expressway Collision today at (718) 317-9800 or contact us online for more information about our services, which include dent and paint repair, as well as frame and unibody repair.