After a car accident in California, you have two options to recover compensation: filing a personal injury lawsuit and filing an insurance claim. Most cases begin in the insurance process before escalating to a lawsuit if necessary.
Liberty Mutual is one of the most popular car insurance companies in the United States. If the at-fault driver has Liberty Mutual coverage, you will need to follow several careful steps to pursue a claim. Navigating an insurance claim can be a challenge, but a California car accident attorney can guide you through the process.
What to Do After a Car Accident in California
Filing a Liberty Mutual claim begins long before you contact the insurance company. In fact, the steps you take after the collision can significantly impact your future case. To protect your right to compensation, take the following actions after the collision:
- Call 911 and report the accident to the police, even if the crash seems minor.
- Seek medical attention and save all of your medical records.
- Exchange contact, license, and insurance information with the at-fault driver.
- Take photographs and videos of the accident scene.
- Speak to witnesses and ask for their contact information.
- Contact a car accident lawyer who can represent your claim.
Filing a Claim with Liberty Mutual Insurance
Once you have received medical care for your accident, it is time to file a claim with Liberty Mutual. The very first step is to call Liberty Mutual’s claims center. Make sure that you have the driver’s policy number ready. Your attorney will prepare you for what comes next.
The company may ask you a few questions about the accident. Answer these questions to the best of your ability and if you do not know an answer, say that you do not know. Remember, anything that you say during this call will be used in your future case.
Next, you will need to complete a claim form. This form can be completed online or over the phone for Liberty Mutual. Once you submit the claim form, the company will assign an adjuster to your case who will investigate the accident and determine whether you are eligible for compensation.
Should You Provide a Recorded Statement to Liberty Mutual?
If your Liberty Mutual adjuster asks for a recorded statement, decline to provide one and speak to your lawyer as soon as possible. It is important to remember that the insurance company does not have your best interests in mind. The company is dedicated to protecting its bottom line, while your lawyer wants to recover the highest possible settlement in your case.
If you provide a recorded statement, you may say something that could impact your final award. For example, you may say that you did not suffer any injuries but later develop complications later. If this is the case, the insurance company will use inconsistencies in your statement to deny your claim or reduce your compensation.
To protect your right to recovery, it is best to not speak with the insurance company without your attorney present. Your lawyer can help you navigate the complex claims process and handle any discussions with Liberty Mutual on your behalf. As soon as possible after your accident, contact a California car accident attorney to discuss your next steps.