You have caused an automobile accident. What are your rights and obligations towards your insurance company?

First, you must notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Notify your insurance company even if you don’t think you caused the accident. Your insurance company cannot raise your premium for filing a claim for which you are not at fault.

Second, once it is notified, your insurance company has an obligation to conduct a prompt investigation. Generally speaking, this means the insurance company must conclude its investigation within 30 days of receiving notice of the claim.

If you have injured someone in the accident, your insurance company has an obligation to promptly settle the claim. If the value of the injuries are more than your insurance limits, your insurance company has an obligation to settle the claim within your insurance limits. If you are sued and even if the suit is false or fraudulent, your insurance company must hire and pay for an attorney to represent you in the lawsuit.

The bottom line is that the insurance claims process can be confusing but your insurance company should be considering your interests at least equal to its own interests. If you think your insurance company is treating you unfairly, call (888) 640-0835 for a free consultation concerning your rights and obligations when dealing with your insurance company.