In the aftermath of the collision, a claim needs to be filed with your insurance company to seek compensation for damages and injuries. 

Below are the steps an insurance company follows during a car accident investigation. 

Receiving the Claim: 

Once the accident is reported to the insurance company, a claims adjuster will be assigned to handle the case. The adjuster will be the primary point of contact throughout the investigation process. 

Collecting Information: 

The first step of the investigation involves gathering essential details about the accident. This includes obtaining the police report, statements from involved parties and witnesses, photographs of the accident scene, and any available video footage or dashcam recordings. 

Reviewing Policy Coverage: 

The claims adjuster will carefully review the insurance policy to determine the coverage applicable to the accident. They will assess whether the policy covers property damage, medical expenses, and any other relevant expenses resulting from the accident. 

Evaluating Liability: 

Determining fault or liability is a critical aspect of the investigation. The insurance company will assess the evidence collected to establish who was at fault for the accident. This may involve examining traffic laws, road conditions, and any contributing factors like speeding, distracted driving, or DUI. 

Damage Assessment: 

The insurance company will evaluate the extent of the damage to the insurer's vehicle. This could involve an in-person inspection by an appraiser or, in some cases, the adjuster may request photos or estimates from approved repair shops. 

Medical Review: 

If there are injuries sustained in the accident, the insurance company will review the medical records and bills to understand the extent of the injuries and the medical expenses incurred. 

Witness Statements: 

Witnesses play a crucial role in corroborating the events leading up to the accident. The insurance company may contact witnesses to obtain their statements and gather additional perspectives on the incident. 

Recorded Statements: 

The claims adjuster may also request recorded statements from all parties involved in the accident. It's essential to be cautious during these interviews and avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be misinterpreted. 

Time Frame: 

The duration of the investigation can vary depending on the complexity of the accident and the extent of injuries and damages involved. Simple cases may be resolved quickly, while more complex accidents may require a more extended investigation. 

Settlement or Denial: 

After completing the investigation, the insurance company will determine whether to accept liability and offer a settlement, deny the claim, or negotiate further with the involved parties. If you are dissatisfied with the offered settlement, you have the right to negotiate or appeal the decision. 

In conclusion, when a car accident claim is filed with the insurance company, they will conduct a thorough investigation to determine liability and assess the extent of the claim. Cooperating with the claims adjuster, providing accurate information, and having supporting evidence can facilitate a smoother and fairer claims process. However, if there are difficulties or feel the insurance company is not acting in good faith, it's essential to seek advice from a legal professional experienced in handling car accident claims to protect one's rights and interests.