How do insurance companies handle car accident claims?

When you report a car accident, your insurance company starts a claims process designed to investigate the incident and determine compensation. The first step is assigning an adjuster to your case. This adjuster is your main point of contact and is responsible for gathering all the necessary information.

The investigation phase involves collecting evidence to understand what happened. The adjuster will review the police report, speak with you and any other parties involved, interview witnesses, and examine photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage. They may also request medical records if you were injured to assess the extent of your injuries and the required treatment.

Next, the insurance company determines fault based on the evidence and provincial traffic laws. In Ontario, fault determination rules are used to assign responsibility to each driver involved. This decision impacts how claims are paid out, especially for vehicle repairs.

Once fault is established and all damages and injuries are assessed, the adjuster will move towards a settlement. For accident benefits, this involves paying for approved medical treatments and income replacement. For property damage, it means covering the cost of repairs or the value of the car if it's a total loss. If you are entitled to sue the at-fault driver for further damages, their insurance company will handle the negotiations, which may lead to a settlement or a court case. Throughout this process, the adjuster will communicate with you about the status of your claim and the final settlement offer.