After a car accident, one of the next steps is to go through an auto insurance company to get your vehicle repaired and other losses covered. In Texas, that insurance company may be GEICO since it is the third-largest auto insurer in the state. If that is the case, here is some information on how to best handle a car accident claim with GEICO.
Since Texas is an “at-fault” state, the driver responsible for causing the crash is legally responsible for any damage and injuries they cause. Therefore, there are two scenarios where you would file a GEICO claim after an accident.
The At-Fault Driver Has GEICO
If GEICO insures the at-fault driver, you have the option to file a claim directly through GEICO. The at-fault driver should have already reported the accident, but if not, you can notify them of the collision with their policyholder. An insurance adjuster will be assigned to your claim to investigate and determine fault for the accident. If they discover their policyholder was to blame, they may make a settlement offer.
You are Insured By GEICO
If you were at fault for the accident and carry GEICO, your only option for compensation is your insurance. However, it will depend on the types of coverage you have on your policy. For example, if you only carry liability insurance and do not have collision coverage, you will have to pay out-of-pocket for your vehicle repairs and other accident expenses.
Alternatively, if you have collision coverage, you can file a claim with GEICO regardless of who was at fault for the accident, but you are responsible for the deductible. GEICO will assign a claim adjuster to investigate the accident. If they determine another party was at fault, they will pursue a subrogation claim against the at-fault party’s insurer to recover compensation for the benefits they paid on your claim.
The fastest and easiest way to file a claim with GEICO is through:
Once you report the accident, a claim adjuster will be assigned to your case. They have 15 days to reach out for additional information, such as photos, the police report, medical records, a recorded statement, and damage inspection. The claims adjuster will come to you if you cannot drive your car.
Along the way, you can check the claim status and updates with GEICO’s online claim tool. Once the adjuster completes their investigation, they have 15 days after you provide the information requested to either approve or deny your claim. However, the deadline can be extended by 45 days, but they must give you notice of it and the reason why. Once GEICO approves a claim, they have five days to send payment.
Make sure not to give a recorded statement or accept a settlement offer from GEICO before speaking to a Houston car accident lawyer. An initial settlement offer is typically lower than the compensation you deserve. If you give a recorded statement, there is a chance that it can be used against you as evidence of fault. A car accident lawyer can provide protection and sound legal advice as they handle all communication with GEICO for you.