Filing Insurance Claims after an Accident

January 14th, 2010 cloud Comments

There are several tips to ensure that an insurance claim is filed properly. Not every accident warrants a claim so it is good to know the basics if an accident should ever occur.

When an accident happens and people are injured the police should be contacted. In addition, there are provincial limits that require the presence of the police. An example would be a $1,000 limit in Ontario.

To ensure that more damage does not occur the car or cars should be moved out of the way of traffic. Then all parties involved can start collecting information for the car insurance companies. That includes accident details, vehicle identification, names of all parties involved in the accident and the badges from the police officers and the emergency technicians. Pictures are also very helpful.

A driver-information exchange form can make the process a lot easier. The police officer or officers on site will have one available and it is a checklist that ensures that all information that in needed is obtained properly. Witnesses are also a part of this process and their info, like names and addresses, must be taken down too.

Both drivers must contact their insurance companies and file a claim. The sooner that the company is contacted the better. The longer that it takes it may become more difficult. Also all information must be disclosed and if not that can lead to more problems.

The next step is to get the cars repaired. Do not get any work done on the car unless the insurance company agrees to pay for the repairs needed to get the car up and running. Repairs have to be checked upon completion and again at home. A receipt must be obtained too so that if it is needed with the insurance claim. Supplemental repairs may also be required if more damage is found so make sure that the insurance company can handle that.

The auto insurance company can also help to start the repairs faster with shops in the area of where the claim will be filed. It makes it an easier process to take a car to a shop that has ties with the insurance company.

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Everything you wanted to know about Insurance

November 12th, 2009 cloud Comments

Insurance has been an integral part of our society since a very long time. The Chinese and the Babylonian traders were one of the firsts to practice the various features of the insurance as we know it today. It was about 3000 to 4000 years back but since then the rise of insurance has been unidirectional, i.e. upwards. The first proper insurance company, as we know them was in the United States and was formed at 1732 in Charleston, South Carolina. Not surprisingly it was Benjamin Franklin himself who helped popularize the concept of insurance in those days. Today there are around 300 premier insurance firms based in the United States of America. Of which, insurance companies like Berkshire Hathaway Inc., General Electric Capital Corp, Metropolitan Life Insurance Co, United health Group, Medco Health Solutions Inc., American Express Company, Prudential Financial Inc., Caremark Inc, New York Life Insurance Co etc. are considered to be the market leaders.

If you are at all thinking about taking an insurance policy you would better have a rough idea about the types of insurances that you can avail. The first on the list are the auto-insurances, which as the name itself suggests, is related to the motor vehicles that you buy. Second is Home insurance, then comes health insurance, Accident, Sickness and Unemployment Insurances, Casualty insurance, Life insurance, Property insurance, Liability insurance, Credit insurance and various other types of insurances are available for you to choose from. All you have to do to procure any of the above mentioned policies is to deposit a monthly or an annual premium against the insurance policy that you buy. Yes, it is an investment but this investment saves you from greater tragedies and makes sure that you walk out of your loss unharmed.

There are many subsections and bifurcations of the insurance policies that we just talked about. They are just so interesting that a film called Double Indemnity was made on these policies by Mr. Billy Wilder and today it is considered to be the greatest Film Noir of all time. This film is about two insurance detectives and their quest for professional glory. Things get dark along the line as the femme fatale tries to ditch our ‘hero’ and the plot just gets better and better. Anyway, as we were talking about insurance, one must also be wary about the various catches that some dubious insurance companies use to lure the probable customers into their traps.

Whenever we purchase life insurances, we get an immense sense of relief. Though the premiums are always hefty, there is an assurance that our family members would be well paid and it would secure their lives even if we die or are paralyzed be some accident or illness. But there have been cases where the payout has been absolutely chaotic and it goes even worse if someone takes out insurance inside superannuation.

If you have an insurance of a sum greater than $1.24 million, your heirs might end up paying 48.5% of the excess as tax bill. This is the case only when you have left this money to your husband/wife, children still under the age of 18 or some other dependents. In any other case the tax is applied from the very first dollar itself. To save your loved ones from this trap always try and keep the super to below $1.24 million. It is also suggested that one takes out extra insurances to cover up the tax bills.

There may be times when the payout might stop unexpectedly. This is again a case of the super, this time it is in relation to the income protection insurance that guarantees you a pay even if you are physically or mentally unable to work. This policy is only helpful for the first two years of you disability as this is the nature of the income protection insurance policies. Thus, it is a no good policy if someone is disabled for life.

There are some policies like the TDP, i.e. the Total Disability Policy. According to this policy you have two alternatives to choose from. These are, disability to have ‘any occupation’ and the second one is the disability to have your ‘own occupation’. If you choose for ‘any occupation’, this means that you cannot do any kind of job but render you 20 to 30% less of what you would have got as payback. Further on, say if a sportsman meets an accidents were his legs are permanently disabled, he won’t be paid anything on the grounds that he can perform other clerical jobs. This policy works regardless of the pay that the policy holder gets. In these cases it is recommended that people take the ‘own occupation’ policy, since their original occupations involved specialized physical activities.

On the other hand, having an ‘own occupation’ policy requires that the trustee holds an ‘any occupation’ policy. Thus an even if the criterion meets with that of the insurer’s, it is not necessary that it would meet with that of the trustee. It is best advised that one holds his or her policy outside of the super and makes sure that the concerned person also holds income protection insurance.

There a few things as these that one must keep in mind before buying an insurance policy. Though the insurances are made to help you, they can prove really suicidal at times. It is best advised to the readers that they consult their legal advisers before they buy any kind of insurance policy and make sure that there isn’t any trap waiting for them around the corner. Always remember to read the fine prints and if in any kind of a doubt do not go ahead with the deal. Insurances are for your loved ones; do not make it a burden on them. And do watch the film I mentioned, it’s a classic.

Categories: Insurance Tags:

Understanding your Insurance Contract

July 16th, 2009 cloud Comments

Insurance is bought for protection and cover by almost everybody; most of the times on the advice of the agent and keeping in view the principal amount. But we do not usually go in to the details of the contract. Let us see the essentials of an insurance contract.

What constitutes a valid contract of insurance?

All the aspects of a contract stand binding to an insurance contract also. They are listed below.

  • Offer and acceptance

This forms the basis of the contract, since the individual seeking insurance makes an offer to the insurance company and if the company agrees to extend insurance then it is an acceptance of the offer so made.

  • Consideration

The person seeking insurance has to pay premium regularly at pre-determined frequency, thus providing consideration for the services offered by the insurance company. The insurance company on the other hand is bound by contract to pay in case a claim arises. This is consideration from the company’s side.

  • Legal capacity

Both parties need to be legally competent to enter into the insurance contract. The insurance company is legally competent to provide cover only when it is registered under the appropriate authority of the country or state. Similarly the person seeking insurance has to be competent to enter the contract i.e. he/ she should not be a minor or mentally ill rendering themselves incapable of entering a contract.

  • Legal purpose

Insurance is a legal contract with an insurable interest and not a wagering agreement. Hence the legality of the insurance contract is established while making the proposal to the company.

Insurance contracts are based on certain principles. They are listed below.

  • Insurable interest

The insured should suffer a financial loss in case of damage to the property without which an insurer will not provide cover.

  • Utmost good faith

The contract is based on the doctrine of good faith i.e. the person seeking insurance should disclose all material facts vital to the contracts.

  • Principle of Subrogation

This principle allows the insurer to recover in case a claim arises due to the fault of a third party. But the insurance company has had to pay for the losses to the insured.

  • Doctrine of Adhesion

In case there are any ambiguous terms discovered later in the contract then the insured is allowed the interpretation of such a clause. The insured will not be allowed to change the terms of the agreement.

Although the details of insurance contracts are not needed since people depend on their financial planners completely for their insurance decisions, it is advisable to be aware of the terms, since most of you pay a substantially large amount towards insurance premium.

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Truck insurance

June 8th, 2009 cloud Comments

When determining insurance premiums, a truck insurance provider takes many features into account. One of the most important factors is safety features. Having job security will greatly reduce insurance rates. In addition, many safety features required by law.

Lights and reflectors

All lights must be visible and not covered. This means you can not be hidden by the cargo or parts of the trailer or be covered with earth. All tail lights must be red. Amber tail lights are not allowed. Plus:

A two-turn signals are required on the back of the truck is going to warn vehicles of lane changes and turns.

-Trailers must have rear side lights 60 inches above the ground.

-Trailers must have two reflectors on the rear, giving the width of the trailer.
Retro reflective sheeting is also a requirement for trailers. The total length of the side plates should be half the length of the trailer. It should also extend through the rear of the trailer.

Front fog lamps are an excellent safety feature. If used, must be in relation to the lights, rather than as an alternative to the headlamps.

Electronics

The battery must be sealed and carries all the corrosives must be painted with acid resistant paint. Naturally, all wiring must be properly insulated properly grounded.

Brakes

All trucks must be equipped with an adequate system to break the weight of the combination of truck and trailer operation. Parking breaks must also be used. The brakes must be active on all wheels. The brakes should always be in good condition. This means that any damage to or use of brake pads, brake chambers, slack adjusters and should be remedied as soon as possible. Anti-lock brakes are also required in all vehicles.

Tires

All tires must be able to work, which means that the belt is not exposed through the tread. Used tires must be able to withstand the weight and load distribution.

How to search the UK Truck Insurance

First, you may ask why you need insurance. That is why you need a special insurance for trucks in the UK, because obviously there is a legal requirement to have basic knowledge which should cover the vehicles on British roads in the first place. Additional coverage, such as goods in transit truck insurance may seem like a lot of overtime to fix problems, and an unnecessary cost when some owners and operators of transport companies are trying hard to make a living, but it’s worth consider the added security to their customers feel knowing their goods are properly protected. United Kingdom and advertising truck insurance can give an air of legitimacy to an owner operator who has not starting for the first time. And of course it’s not just about appearances – if goods are damaged on the way and is not insured, you have to pay for damages, or supporting a withdrawal legal battle with someone who could have become a good customer. Similarly, if an employee of a large transportation company has an accident and blame the owners, some kind of protection can make a difference to an amicable resolution.

So here is a summary of the types of insurance in the United Kingdom of supply trucks, and what they offer. Some are mandatory, while others are optional – and it’s up to you whether you can do without them.

Vehicle insurance

Any vehicle on the road must be insured – that is a legal requirement which most people are aware of, and, of course, as well as account for the trucks! This is obviously a major expense for owner operators from, so it really makes sense to see how prices compare for different trucks before you decide what you intend to purchase, allowing you to save on your vehicle sure.

Goods in transit insurance truck

Worth the money stumping for goods in transit insurance as well. This will protect your cargo against loss and damage, which can offer real peace of mind when you are carrying a valuable fine on back of the truck. Ensure the safe transport of cover you select a high enough value – if you’re claiming for damage to items worth £ 20,000 and only has the goods in transit of heavy goods vehicles in the amount of insurance Up to £ 10,000, then we will pay half the damages!

Its primary insurance company may cover this, but if not, then it is very easy to reach from the UK specialist insurance truck dealers. This is especially worth considering for new owner operators, as it makes you seem more legitimate and people feel they have peace of mind that the opportunity in all its glory proof.

Public Liability

This may not be as necessary as the other two, but it is still worth considering, especially for new owner operators with butter fingers! This aspect of UK lorry insurance coverage for incidents involving their clients, for example if you drop their entire batch of pianos on their foot. It is better for backup in the background, and gives additional legal basis should accidents occur.

Continental Truck Insurance
This is something that is essential or useless, depending on how you do business, but it is very easy to prepare, of course: Do you spend any of your work hours delivering loads abroad on the continent? If yes, then you need to secure a continental transportation, if you can not save that money and adhere to a policy of insurance in the UK truck.

These options vary between essential and optional, but all must be carefully considered – it really does not pay to cut corners to make a short term savings, insurance and heavy vehicles can offer some scope to essential things go wrong, if you are owner of a fleet of vehicles or a humble owner operator. If you are looking for the entire fleet with a truck insurance is worth remembering that discounts are often available and wide-ranging, so do not be afraid to buy!

11 Tips for Getting Best Truck Insurance Rates

Truck insurance protects the owner of the vehicle and any damages. Owners who purchase their own truck insurance get the most competitive rates, but there are many ways to further reduce premiums by reading articles and tips on safe Internet written by specialists.

Factors that affect insurance premiums for trucks are: driving records, age of driver, age of equipment, commodities transported, the location of activities and areas of operation, losses incurred in the management and forth.

Here are some things to consider:

1. Keep safety in mind and make sure the truck, with its mechanics, tires and kept in condition. Good maintenance of trucks means reduced insurance premiums.

2. Find out what the Department of Transportation inspection demands and make sure the truck pass inspection by far.

3. Keep driving record free of stain. His driving record affects insurance premiums. Insurance companies take into account how many years have led to the trucks and the training which has decided to submit.

4. Make sure to ask about one of the insurance burdens.

5. Insurance companies will ask about the insurance policies of the previous trucks, and the reasons for leaving. Keep records of care and provide honest answers to questions.

6. Make a financial plan and pay the maximum deductible. The higher the deductible the lower the premium payable.

7. Recommended to adopt all the safety features such as warning stickers.
8. It is recommended to undergo training and safety programs. This will reduce the insurance premiums in large truck.

9. Buy a truck insurance company leader. Look for online deals and discounts. Very often bought insurance online is more profitable to purchase policies through agents.

10. Making a comparison with the use of online tools and get a quote from three different companies.

11. Find out if the company that covers your home and sell insurance for trucks. Often companies offer better rates for people who buy coverage from a number of them.

Truck insurance is sold by the major insurance companies and smaller players. Always check the credentials of the financial and insurance company. Points to consider are: the number of years of experience in the trucking business, financial coverage offered by the company standing with the Better Business Bureau, the coverage it offers.

Buy a truck that lower insurance costs, but also consider the terms, conditions and scope of coverage. Do not choose the low risk premiums for the coverage. Always check the A.M. Best rating of this company will report financial strength and ability to resolve the claim.

Make sure the truck insurance covers: primary responsibility for coverage, coverage for physical damage and cargo coverage. In addition consider: accident insurance, general liability, liability and garage.

To be a good trucker needs to take to protect your truck and ensure that insurance premiums are paid on time.

Types of Auto insurance

May 29th, 2009 cloud Comments

Buying auto insurance can be a great decision for some consumers, especially as each state has its own minimum insurance requirements that are mandated to vehicle owners to drive his car legally. Before buying any type of auto insurance is important to know the different types of auto insurance coverage and services available in the insurance providers.

At least every state requires all drivers to be insured with liability insurance. Basically, liability insurance covers the costs that occur if you cause an accident and destroy another person’s car or auto. Liability insurance does not pay for any damage sustained in a car accident case. Almost all lenders require a lender or financial consumer to have full coverage auto insurance rather than liability insurance in order to preserve the value of its loan against a new or used car that is financed by the bank.

Damage to property is the amount of insurance needed to pay for repairs or damage to another vehicle if the driver cause an accident. This is a portion of the minimum required liability insurance as provided by the various States. Without this insurance consumption is responsible for the accident would be liable to pay for any damages or liabilities as a result of the accident. With the price of cars today that could prove financially disastrous for what each state requires a minimum amount of coverage for property damage.

Personal injury protection coverage is insurance that pays for a percentage of the medical bills as a result of hospitalization or medical treatment received. It also provides some help with the wages they lost as a result of some accident and death benefits.

Uninsured motorist insurance coverage that provides relief in case you are involved in an accident without being at fault and the other driver has no auto insurance coverage. Although every state requires a minimum amount of liability insurance, there are still many drivers who have no insurance or have any type of automobile insurance that almost a necessity in order to give a little peace of mind while driving on the road .

Comprehensive coverage and collision coverage are the other types of insurance coverage that are within the full coverage umbrella. Typically, these types of insurance are required by banks and lenders to finance any vehicle that the consumer intends to adopt. It provides complete coverage for any damage to your vehicle to include theft and vandalism.

If found guilty in an accident collision coverage offers insurance coverage for your vehicle or car. In most cases the cash value (as determined by the insurance institution, vendor or company) if your vehicle is paid a total loss of the car is produced as a result of the accident.

Finally, injury is another of the minimum required insurance services (under the general liability insurance) required by the states, to drive the car legally. This insurance provides coverage for medical bills that are the result of an accident are responsible for causing.

Understanding the different types of auto insurance will facilitate you find the auto insurance coverage you need at a price you can pay what you can drive legally in the state that currently reside in.