Utah Car Accident Property Damage: What to Expect

Utah Car Accident Property Damage Timeline: What to Expect from Insurance Companies

Understanding the timeline for handling Utah car accident property damage claims is essential, especially when dealing with large insurance companies. The process is often lengthy, with steps such as adjuster interviews, fault determination, police reports, car inspections, and valuation. Here’s what you can expect as you navigate each stage of a property damage claim in Utah.

1. Huge Insurance Companies Mean Delays | Utah Car Accident Property Damage Claim Timeline

Insurance companies are large organizations, often with many claims for each adjuster to handle at once. One claims adjuster may be managing 50 to 100 cases simultaneously, which often leads to delays in processing your Utah car accident property damage claim. Even with an attorney pushing for faster action, expect an average wait time of 30 days or more before resolution.

2. Adjuster Interview and Fault Determination | Utah Car Accident Property Damage Claim Timeline

The process begins with an interview from the insurance adjuster to determine fault in the accident. If you have “full coverage” (collision insurance), your own insurer will begin working on the claim regardless of fault. However, without full coverage, the two involved insurance companies must determine fault before any repair or replacement process can begin.

During this time:

  • If Fault is Unclear: The determination may take between 7 to 30 days.
  • Rental Car Issues: You may not have access to a rental unless you’re willing to pay out-of-pocket, and many insurers may refuse to cover rental costs until fault is confirmed.

3. Police Report Delays

The insurance adjuster will typically need a copy of the police report to help determine fault. However, obtaining this report can take time. While some reports may be accessible within a week, most law enforcement agencies in Utah take at least 10 days to process these requests, especially if requested by mail.

Tip: Picking up the police report in person may help expedite this process, which can reduce the wait for your property damage claim. However, remember that most insurers will not finalize fault determination until the police report is reviewed.

4. Car Inspection and Assessment

The at-fault insurance company often requires an inspection to assess the Utah car accident property damage and photograph the vehicle. This inspection is essential to accurately estimate the repair costs or the value of a total loss. However, sending an inspector can be another source of delay, especially if the car is at a wrecking yard or another inconvenient location.

Tip: Encourage the insurance carrier to send a field adjuster as soon as possible, as delays in the inspection may postpone the entire claims process.

5. Car Valuation Process

Once fault is confirmed, the Utah insurance adjuster will evaluate the damage to your car. This valuation takes into account the vehicle’s model, year, mileage, and condition. If the damage costs exceed the car’s value, the insurer will likely declare it totaled and issue a check based on their valuation.

Note: Valuation cannot begin until the adjuster has completed both the interview and received the police report, meaning this step can be delayed if prior tasks are prolonged.

6. Lowball Offers and Negotiations

Often, the initial valuation offered by the insurance company may seem insufficient or unfair. Many clients experience lowball offers—valuations that are less than the vehicle’s true market value. Negotiating for a fair valuation can take time, and this back-and-forth process may extend the timeline for receiving compensation.

Important Considerations:

  • Rental Car Challenges: Insurance companies often refuse to cover rental costs during negotiations, leaving claimants without a vehicle.
  • Wrecking Yard Fees: If your car is towed to a wrecking yard, it may accrue daily storage fees that the insurance company may also refuse to cover.

Get Help with Your Utah Car Accident Property Damage Claim

Many personal injury attorneys do not handle property damage claims, as it can be a complicated and time-consuming process. Utah personal injury attorney Jacob S. Gunter is experienced in both personal injury and property damage claims, ensuring his clients receive fair compensation and support. From fault determination to valuation disputes, Gunter can guide you through the Utah car accident property damage process and advocate on your behalf.

If you’re dealing with property damage after a car accident, call Jake Gunter at (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation today.

Learn More About Utah Accident Lawyer Jake Gunter Jacob S. Gunter | Personal Injury Attorney in Provo

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