If you’re in an accident with a drunk driver, you should take some necessary steps to protect your rights as soon as it is safe to do so. You want to gather as much information as possible, including photos of the scene and damages, a copy of the police report, and medical records that document your injuries. You also want to keep careful notes on any expenses you incur for the treatment of your injuries. If Progressive Insurance covers the impaired, at-fault driver, here are some specific things to consider.
How Does Progressive Insurance Handle Drunk Driving Accident Claims?
After an accident with an at-fault driver who has Progressive Insurance, a trained adjuster from the company will call you. The adjuster will have lots of questions about what happened. While it is acceptable to tell the adjuster where and when the accident occurred, which direction you were going, and what kind of accident it was, you should not discuss your injuries or share any thoughts on how the incident occurred. Remember that you are not legally required to give any written statement, and your attorney may advise against it. Instead, you can choose to provide only the basics and complete a more detailed written report later.
How Do I Notify Progressive of My Damages?
In your initial letter to Progressive, you will list the total amount of the damages, including all of your losses.
- Medical bills including doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, therapy services, and more
- Damage to your car and any other personal property
- Lost income from missing work
- Any loss of function or lessened quality of life as a result of depression, anxiety, and other mental health diagnoses
- Documentation of future expected expenses, such as ongoing medical costs
- Any additional losses or lost income you suffer as a result of the accident.
If your request is reasonable and Progressive refuses to pay you what you have requested, you may have to go to court. Generally, Progressive prefers to avoid the expense and risk of court proceedings in front of a jury.
Where Can I Find Help?
When you suffer significant injuries and property damage in an accident, it is in your best interest not to go alone. Mistakes can cost you thousands of dollars, and Progressive has competent legal representation on their side. Contact a knowledgeable and experienced auto accident lawyer, such as from Barry P. Goldberg, who understands the rules specific to your jurisdiction.
