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USAA Insurance Claims
USAA Insurance Claims
The United Services Automobile Association (USAA) provides insurance for people serving in the military and their families. It is based in Texas and has about 11.4 million members across the country. The company does not have shareholders but it is committed to making profits just like other insurance companies. This is partly the reason why making a claim with the company when their policy-holder hits you can be difficult. Talk to a car accident lawyer that has experience dealing with insurance companies before you file a claim with them.
Filing A Claim With USAA
USAA allows you to file a claim through their mobile app, on their website, by email or by phone. You will need to be registered with an online username to file a claim using USAA’s online claims system. Filing online allows you to check the status of your claim, upload documents and view documents at any time.
You or your insurance company can file a claim with USAA if the company’s policy-holder caused the accident that led to your injuries or your property damage. USAA will have to compensate you for property damage or medical expenses in that situation because Texas is an at-fault state. The information you will need when filing a claim with USAA include:
- A copy of the police report for your accident
- Any evidence of the damage to your vehicle such as photos of the wreckage
- The USAA member’s name and policy number
- The USAA member’s vehicle make and model
- Evidence for injuries that you suffered in the accident
- Names and contact information of any passengers involved in the accident
Try and get a second opinion from a trusted repair shop for the cost of repair for your car, before you get an estimate from USAA.
What To Expect When Filing A Claim With USAA
The company assigns your claim to a specific adjuster after you file an insurance claim. Adjusters will work to gain your trust and try to convince you to settle for a lower amount than what you deserve. They will try to persuade you to make a recorded statement about the accident. You should not accept to do this because they can use anything you say to try and deny your claim.
Only give basic information such as your contact information and your name, but avoid having any discussion about your injuries with an insurance adjuster. Adjusters are often looking for ways to question the severity of your injuries so that they can reduce your compensation amount. All they need to do this is a seemingly offhand comment from you. If they want to discuss your injuries, make sure your lawyer is present. They may also frustrate you by delaying your claims process so that you can give up and accept whatever offer they put on the table.
Your lawyer is aware of the tactics they use and will ensure that they do not get any details that may be used against you.