Have you been in a car accident with a driver insured by Geico? If so, you need to know how to properly handle your injury claim to receive fair compensation. Geico is one of the largest auto insurers in the U.S., so many accident victims end up dealing with them. While Geico promises “15 minutes can save you 15% or more on car insurance,” they are not always so speedy or generous when it comes to paying out claims. You should understand their claims process and strategies before contacting them about your accident to avoid being taken advantage of during a vulnerable time. A talented car accident lawyer can make sure that your claim is handled properly. With the right approach, you can get the maximum settlement you deserve.
Geico Insurance Claim Process Overview
As a Geico policyholder involved in an auto accident, it’s important to understand their claims process to get the coverage and compensation you deserve.
Geico’s claims process begins at the scene of the accident. First, contact the police and exchange information with the other driver(s) involved, including names, contact details, license plate numbers, and insurance information. Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, insurance cards, the surrounding area and any visible injuries.
Next, report your claim to Geico as soon as possible. You can do this through their mobile app, website, or by phone. Be prepared to provide details about the accident, policy information, and contact information for anyone else involved. Geico will start an initial investigation and may have an adjuster contact you for a recorded statement about the incident.
If anyone was injured, seek medical attention right away. Provide Geico information about any injuries or treatment. They will review medical records and bills to determine fault and ensure all expenses are covered under your policy.
A claims adjuster will examine the details of your accident and determine who is at fault. If they find the other driver at fault, they will pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company on your behalf through a process called subrogation. If they determine you are at fault, your coverage limits will apply.
Settlement Offers and Negotiation
Once Geico has investigated your claim and determined the at-fault party, they will calculate a settlement amount to compensate you for vehicle damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You can accept their initial offer or negotiate for a fair settlement amount. If needed, hire an attorney to help you get the maximum compensation you deserve under your policy.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Geico Car Accident Claim?
When filing an injury claim with Geico after a car accident, you may be wondering if you need to hire a personal injury lawyer to help you. In many cases, the answer is yes. Here are some reasons why:
Geico's interests are not aligned with your own. As an insurance company, Geico aims to settle claims for as little money as possible. They have teams of attorneys and adjusters working to limit how much they pay for your claim. A lawyer will advocate for you and work to maximize the amount you recover.
The claims process can be complicated. There are many legal procedures and documentation requirements in filing an injury claim. A lawyer is trained in handling the necessary paperwork and understands how to properly value and document the details of your claim to get you the best possible outcome.
You may be entitled to more than Geico offers. Insurance companies like Geico often make initial lowball offers in hopes claimants will accept less than fair value for their claim. Your lawyer can determine if their offer fully accounts for all your damages and losses, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, vehicle repairs, and other expenses.
Settlement negotiations require experience. Working with a lawyer, especially one with experience handling Geico claims, gives you the best chance of obtaining a fair settlement that provides for all your needs resulting from the accident. They know how to counter the company's arguments and negotiate the maximum amount on your behalf.
In summary, while it is possible to handle an injury claim with Geico on your own, hiring a personal injury lawyer is typically in your best interests. They can advocate for you, guide you through the complex claims process, determine if initial offers are fair, and negotiate to get you the maximum settlement for your damages. For the best outcome from your claim, consider consulting with a lawyer.
How Geico Evaluates Your Car Accident Injury Claim
Geico, like most major insurance companies, evaluates car accident injury claims to determine liability and the amount of compensation for damages. Geico claims adjusters consider several factors when reviewing your claim:
- The details of the accident and events leading up to it. Geico will investigate the circumstances of the collision to establish fault and liability. They will determine if their policyholder was negligent or at-fault for causing the accident. If fault cannot be definitively determined, Geico may deny your claim or provide only partial compensation.
- The severity of your injuries. Geico will review medical records, treatment plans, and other documentation from physicians, hospitals, and healthcare providers to evaluate the nature and extent of your injuries. More severe injuries that require ongoing medical care and rehabilitation typically merit higher settlement offers.
- Costs of medical treatment. Geico will calculate all medical bills, expenses, and costs of care related to injuries from the accident. This includes emergency transport, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, medication, and other necessary treatment. Geico will negotiate to pay only what they deem fair and reasonable for the types of injuries sustained.
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity. If your injuries prevent you from working for a period of time or permanently reduce your ability to earn an income, Geico may provide compensation for lost wages and loss of earning potential. They will require proof of your income, work history, and physician statements regarding your ability to work.
- Pain and suffering. Geico may provide additional compensation for non-economic damages like emotional distress, trauma, loss of enjoyment of life, and physical pain resulting from your injuries. The amount offered depends on the severity and details of your unique situation.
In summary, Geico thoroughly investigates car accident claims to limit the amount paid whenever possible. To receive fair compensation, you must provide substantial evidence to support the details of your claim. Legal representation from a personal injury attorney can help strengthen your case and maximize the settlement amount.
Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Geico Insurance Claim
When filing an insurance claim with Geico after a car accident, there are some mistakes you will want to avoid. By being aware of these common errors, you can ensure your claim is processed as efficiently as possible.
Not Reporting the Accident Quickly
It is important to notify Geico of an accident as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. Failure to report the accident promptly can result in delays or denial of your claim. When you call to report the incident, be prepared to provide details about the time, location and events of the collision.
Not Getting Medical Attention
Even if you think injuries from a car accident are minor, it is best to get checked out by a doctor. Undetected injuries can worsen over time, and a medical report will help support your claim. Seeking medical care promptly also helps avoid accusations that your injuries were preexisting or unrelated to the accident.
Not Maintaining Records
Keep records of all expenses related to the accident like medical bills, repair or replacement costs for your vehicle, and other financial losses. Provide copies of these records to Geico to substantiate the amounts you are claiming. Lacking proper documentation can result in lower compensation than you may be entitled to.
Communicating Directly With the Other Party
Do not admit fault or make promises to pay for damages to the other driver. Let the insurance companies handle communications and determination of liability. Statements made at the scene of the accident can be misinterpreted and harm your claim. Refer all questions to your insurance provider.
Not Consulting an Accident Lawyer
For severe or complex car accidents, it is wise to consult an accident lawyer regarding your rights and options for pursuing a claim. An attorney can advise you on how to maximize compensation and handle negotiations with insurance companies. In some cases, hiring a lawyer may be necessary to obtain fair payment for injuries and losses.
How Much Can I Expect From a Geico Car Accident Settlement?
After being involved in a car accident, one of the first questions you may have is how much your claim against GEICO's insurance policy may be worth. The amount of a GEICO car accident settlement depends on the specifics of your case, including:
- The severity of your injuries. More severe injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or injuries requiring surgery typically result in higher settlements. Minor soft tissue injuries like whiplash tend to be on the lower end of the settlement range.
- The amount of your medical bills and other expenses. Higher medical costs, loss of income, and additional expenses related to your injuries will increase the value of your claim. Be prepared to provide records and documentation of all accident-related costs.
- Shared or disputed fault. If GEICO accepts 100% fault for the accident, you have a stronger case for maximum compensation. If fault is disputed or shared with another party, your final settlement amount may be reduced.
- The limits of the at-fault driver's policy. GEICO will not pay more than the maximum coverage limits of the policy. If the at-fault driver has low policy limits, you may not recover full compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Your location. Settlement and verdict amounts vary in different areas based on the local costs of living and medical care. Settlements also tend to be higher in areas where juries are more generous.
- Your willingness to go to trial. GEICO is more likely to offer a higher settlement if you demonstrate that you are fully prepared to take your case to court to get the compensation you deserve. Be assertive in negotiations, but also flexible enough to compromise when reasonable.
The exact amount of your GEICO accident settlement will depend on the specifics of your unique situation. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help determine a fair settlement range based on the details of your case and GEICO's settlement history for comparable claims.
Fletcher Law Has Helpful Experience With Geico Car Accident Claims
Fletcher Law has significant experience handling Geico car accident claims and securing fair settlements for our clients. Our attorneys understand Geico’s claims process and use that knowledge to build a strong case for you.
An Established Firm With a Proven Track Record
Fletcher Law has been representing car accident victims for years. Our attorneys have handled hundreds of Geico claims and know how to deal with their adjusters and legal team. We have a proven track record of obtaining favorable settlements from Geico for our clients.
Skilled Negotiators Who Fight For Maximum Compensation
The attorneys at Fletcher Law are highly skilled negotiators who will fight to get you the maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. We will not be bullied into accepting a lowball offer from Geico and will take your case to court if needed to get you fair compensation. Our legal team has extensive litigation experience and a successful track record in the courtroom.
Personalized Service and Advice For Every Client
At Fletcher Law, we provide personalized service and advice for each client. We listen to you and get to fully understand the details of your unique accident and injuries. We then develop a customized legal strategy to pursue the compensation and justice you deserve from Geico. You will have direct access to the attorneys working on your case, and we keep you informed at every step of the process.
If you were in an accident with a Geico insured driver, contact the experienced car accident attorneys at Fletcher Law. We have a proven track record of success in handling Geico claims and will fight to get you maximum compensation for your injuries. Call us today for a free consultation.