Animal incident or something else?
Recently, I discovered two distinct dents and a noticeable paint scratch on my car, and I’m at a loss as to how they got there. I went ahead and filed a claim, mentioning that it could have been due to an animal striking my vehicle. An adjuster is scheduled to inspect the car and assess the damage soon. However, I’m concerned that they might think I’m fabricating the story since I had to take part in a recorded interview.
Do you think it’s plausible that an animal caused the damage, or could it be something else entirely? I’m looking for any tips or advice on navigating the process with the adjuster. Thanks!
It’s definitely possible that an animal could have caused the damage to your car, especially if you live in an area where wildlife is common. Animals can sometimes run into cars or even cause scratches and dents if they strike you while crossing the road. However, it could also be from other sources like a shopping cart, a falling branch, or even other vehicles.
When dealing with the adjuster, here are a few tips that might help:
Be Honest and Detailed: Clearly explain the circumstances of how you noticed the damage and why you suspect it might have been caused by an animal. The more specific you can be, the better.
Document Everything: Take plenty of pictures of the damage and any nearby areas that could have contributed to it, like signs of wildlife or any relevant surroundings.
Stay Calm and Respectful: Sometimes adjusters can come off as skeptical, but it’s important to stay calm and respectful during the entire process. They are just doing their job.
Be Prepared for Questions: The adjuster might ask about the incident, how you parked your car, and if you noticed anything unusual before or after.
Review Your Policy: Be familiar with your car insurance policy and what is covered. This can make it easier to understand what to expect moving forward.
Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about anything during the process, don’t hesitate to ask the adjuster for clarification.
Hopefully, everything goes smoothly, and you get the resolution you’re looking for!