Types of GEICO Auto Insurance Accident Claims
If you incurred injuries in an accident with a driver insured by GEICO, you would file a third-party claim because you’re not in a direct contractual relationship with the company. You don’t have the same rights as a policyholder, and you should work with an attorney to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Policyholders do have a contract with GEICO, so you’re the first party when filing a claim. Essentially, you’re seeking to enforce your rights under the terms and conditions of the agreement. You pay your premiums, and an insurer must also uphold its end of the bargain. Still, you can only recover compensation for damages designated by your policy:
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
If you opt to add it, PIP pays up to a certain percentage of your medical bills, and a specific amount of your lost income if your injuries prevent you from working. You can’t recover for pain and suffering.
Collision Coverage
This type of coverage is optional by law, but lenders may require it to protect their loan collateral, meaning your car. Collision coverage applies to damage from a crash, either with another vehicle or a single-car incident.
Comprehensive Coverage
If your vehicle is damaged by some event or incident other than an accident, you may file a claim for compensation under your comprehensive coverage terms.
Under/Uninsured Motorist Claims
All motorists in Ohio must carry minimum auto insurance coverage, but some drivers violate these laws. You can file a first-party claim with your insurance company through uninsured or underinsured coverage, if you do have this option.
Signs of GEICO Bad Faith
Third-party claimants will almost always experience pushback in dealing with GEICO, but first-party consumers don’t have to accept unfair treatment when filing GEICO auto insurance accident claims. You should keep an eye out for certain types of conduct. Contact an attorney right away if a claims adjuster:
- Delays paying out compensation without explanation
- Denies your claim and won’t cite a reason
- Doesn’t respond to calls or messages
- Fails to investigate your claim
- Won’t talk settlement
- Cites loopholes in your policy terms when issuing a rejection of your claim
- Passes your claim off to another department or employee
- Engages in any other suspicious activity regarding your claim
GEICO Insurance Claim FAQs
How are GEICO Claims Handled?
Most GEICO insurance claims are resolved quickly and never result in a lawsuit; However, the claim process can be significantly delayed if fault is disputed or GEICO investigates. GEICO will usually send payouts as soon as possible after the investigation is complete. GEICO provides payment digitally or by mail.
Should I Accept a GEICO Payout?
You should be wary of a settlement offer that comes too quickly. Low-ball car accident settlements are a common tactic for getting people to accept less than what they deserve. It’s usually best to consult a lawyer about what to expect and what’s full and fair compensation for your assorted losses.
Should I Make a Statement to the GEICO Rep?
No. Insurance adjusters are not interested in your well-being. Any written or recorded statement you make about your accident, the events leading up to it, and possible fault could impede any future legal action or undervalue your claim.
Do GEICO Claims have Time Limits?
If you’re filing under your own GEICO policy, you must report the accident as soon as possible. However, you must comply with the Ohio statute of limitation for personal injury claims to pursue a claim against another party’s policy, which is typically around 2 years.
What if My GEICO Claim Is Denied?
If you feel that your claim was wrongly denied or that you were inadequately compensated, you should speak with an attorney. You may have to counter the company’s low-ball settlement offer, send a demand letter, or move through the company’s formal appeal process.
Contact KNR for Help with Your GEICO Claim
At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our attorneys can assist you with GEICO auto insurance accident claims after a car crash. We can assist you with the process, deal with GEICO representatives, present your case for compensation, make liability clear, establish fault, and fight for all the compensation you deserve.
For more information or to schedule a free consultation, please call 1-800-HURT-NOW, or visit us online.
