How to File a Car Accident Claim with Nationwide

Nationwide, one of the most well-known insurance providers, often touts being “on your side.” It’s their slogan and tagline in television commercials and ads. The company has attempted to build its reputation around being on the car accident victim’s side after a collision for many years. 

However, anyone filing a claim with Nationwide knows this insurance company is not backing you up. It does whatever it takes to further its financial interests without prioritizing what victims may need. 

Do not go into negotiations with this international insurer alone. Your Nationwide car accident lawyer at John Foy & Associates will protect you from being taken advantage of and ensure Nationwide compensates you fairly for your damages. Read on to learn more about filling a car accident insurance claim with Nationwide and how the insurance claims process works. 

Ways to File a Nationwide Car Accident Insurance Claim

There are multiple ways in which you can file a car insurance claim with Nationwide. Immediately after the accident, before you file your claim, it is crucial to collect the evidence you are going to need to prove not only the value of your damages but liability for the accident. 

Gathering Evidence

If Nationwide has any reason to believe that someone other than their policyholder is responsible for the injuries you sustained, you can expect them to do everything they can to avoid paying out on your claim. Some examples of the evidence and information you should gather include:

• A description of the color, make, and model of the involved vehicles
• A thorough explanation of how the accident happened
• Photos and video of the collision and car accident scene
• The policyholder’s name and nationwide policy number

Nationwide may limit the amount of time you have to get your claim filed. Some insurance providers require your claim to be filed within hours of the accident. Others may give you just 30 days. 

Starting the Process

When you are not sure how long you have to get your nationwide car insurance claim filed, make sure you discuss the specific details of your case with your car accident attorney. Some of the primary ways to move forward with your Nationwide car accident claim include:

1. Using the Mobile app – Nationwide allows claimants to file claims by clicking “Start a Claim” on the Nationwide mobile app. You must have an account in order to use this option. 
2. Visiting the Nationwide website – Visiting the Nationwide website and clicking “File a Claim Now” is another way you can get started with your insurance claim. You will have an opportunity to upload photos and videos before you submit your claim to the insurance company.
3. Calling the Nationwide hotline – You can call 800–421–3535 to report a car accident and speak with a Nationwide insurance adjuster. However, the insurance agent will likely ask you questions about how the accident occurred, and you do not want to accidentally give more information than is needed or say anything that could be considered self-incriminating.

After filing your Nationwide claim, an insurance adjuster will be assigned to your case. They will assess the information you provided and determine whether you are entitled to a settlement or insurance payout. 

However, do not be surprised if your claim is denied, even if you are deserving of reimbursement for your damages. Nationwide loses money by paying out on claims, so they will do everything they can to reduce your settlement where possible.

How to Protect Yourself Throughout the Nationwide Insurance Claims Process

It is essential to protect yourself when filing a claim with Nationwide. They are not on your side, despite their slogan and taglines. Nationwide cares most about protecting its financial interests. They will do everything they can to settle for as little as possible. 

Some insurance adjusters have been known to unfairly blame injury victims for causing the accident. Depending on your state’s shared liability laws, sharing fault could prevent you from recovering compensation or result in a reduction of your settlement. Here are some of the things you should do and not do when dealing with insurance adjusters through Nationwide:

• Do not accept Nationwide’s initial settlement offer, which is likely significantly lower than your claim is worth.
• Review Nationwide’s settlement offer with your attorney before you decide to accept.
• Prepare to negotiate with insurance adjusters and submit a counteroffer before accepting a settlement.
• Never agree to give a recorded statement, as this could be used against you and as an opportunity to reduce your settlement.
• Have your car accident lawyer submit a written statement to Nationwide regarding how the accident happened and the other details they need to process your claim.
• Never admit fault or accept responsibility for causing the accident.
• Never express guilt or apologize for the collision.
• Keep your answers as simple as possible and only provide Nationwide with minimal information.

Do not be surprised if your Nationwide insurance claim is initially denied. Remember, by paying out on your car accident claim, nationwide will lose money. If they handle your case in bad faith, your lawyer will show them you mean business and be prepared to hold them accountable in court.

What to Expect from Your Nationwide Car Insurance Settlement

Many car accident victims believe they can get their costs covered by obtaining a car accident settlement from the insurance company. However, nationwide only covers specific types and amounts of damages based on the policyholder’s policy. 

If the policyholder only purchased the bare minimum amount of coverage as required by law, chances are, this will not be enough to cover your damages. Remember, insurance companies generally only compensate victims for property damages and medical bills. 

Non-economic damages and other types of financial losses may not be recovered through the insurance company. Instead, you may need to be prepared to go to trial to maximize your compensation.

Connect with a Nationwide Car Accident Insurance Lawyer Today

Filing a claim with one of the country’s largest insurance companies can be intimidating – particularly when you know they will do everything possible to avoid paying out on your car accident claim. 

Having a dedicated Nationwide car accident insurance lawyer at John Foy & Associates backing you up is crucial to protect your settlement. Reach out through our quick contact form or call our legal team to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and demand Nationwide be held accountable.