While this car insurance company is mainly remembered for its popular lizard commercials, GEICO is also the second-largest auto insurance provider in the nation. After an auto accident, there is a high likelihood you will have to talk to an insurance adjuster. Given GEICO's extensive nationwide customer base, it’s possible that this company may be handling your insurance claim.

Adjusters at large auto insurance companies are skilled at convincing claimants to settle for lowball offers. After a car crash, you may feel vulnerable, wanting to get the process over with quickly. These adjusters understand these stressors and may attempt to get you to settle at a low amount early in the process—often far less than what your car accident claim is worth. With its massive resources, GEICO is known for these tactics.

The best defense against these insurance adjuster strategies is to obtain an auto accident attorney as soon as possible. While you recover from pain and suffering, our experienced, statewide car accident lawyers are ready to assist you through the personal injury case process, protecting you from the misleading tactics of the insurance industry.

When Should I File a Claim with GEICO?

After a car accident with injuries, you may need to file a claim with GEICO if they insure the at-fault driver or cover you under an underinsured motorist policy. Oregon law requires every driver to have auto insurance coverage. The at-fault driver is responsible for injuries, property damage, and other costs associated with the crash. Under Oregon law, insurance companies must cover both property damage and bodily injury liability within policy limits. If the at-fault driver has adequate coverage, it will cover the accident victim's damages up to those limits.

In Oregon, auto insurance policies must include minimum coverage limits of $25,000/$50,000/$20,000—$25,000 per person for bodily injuries, $50,000 total per incident, and $20,000 for property damage. Many drivers choose higher limits, but these are the mandatory minimum coverages.

Oregon also mandates personal injury protection (PIP), a "no-fault" policy that covers medical bills and lost wages up to certain limits, regardless of who was at fault. PIP will pay for costs related to your car crash injuries even if you were responsible. This coverage can help with medical bills and lost wages for up to 52 weeks, though medical expenses are capped at $15,000 per person for the first year following the accident.

Determining Fault in a Car Accident

Determining who is at fault in a car accident is essential for personal injury claims. Insurance adjusters and lawyers review evidence like witness statements, police reports, vehicle recordings, and text message timestamps to assess fault. If a driver was distracted before the crash, for instance, this evidence could prove their liability.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim if the At-Fault Driver is Insured by GEICO

If GEICO insures the person responsible for the accident, you can file a claim with them. They will assign an adjuster to determine the fault percentage of each party involved. Assuming they agree their insured driver was at least 50% responsible, the adjuster may offer you a settlement. However, without a personal injury lawyer, the initial offer will often be much less than you deserve. Our team is skilled in negotiating to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and emotional distress.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim with GEICO if You Are the Policyholder

If you have a policy with GEICO, you can also file a claim, which will be assigned to a GEICO insurance adjuster. Even if GEICO determines the accident was your fault, they are required to cover damages under your PIP coverage and the claims of others involved. If another driver was responsible and lacked adequate insurance, GEICO might cover you under your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist policy. This can help protect you in cases where the other driver’s policy falls short.

Steps to File a Claim Through GEICO

To file a claim, visit GEICO’s online claim tool, accessible through their app or internet browser. Be prepared with essential information like driver’s names, insurance companies, policy numbers, and witness statements. This streamlined process allows you to submit your report efficiently, while also enabling you to keep track of claim progress and receive email updates.

What Happens After Filing Your Claim with GEICO?

Once your claim is filed, the assigned adjuster will contact all involved parties to confirm information. You may be asked to submit additional evidence such as an auto inspection report, police report, or medical records. GEICO’s website allows you to monitor claim status, while email updates keep you informed on any significant developments. Once the investigation concludes, you will receive a decision, including a detailed explanation.

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits in Oregon

In Oregon, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is typically two years. This period defines the time limit to settle the claim or file a lawsuit, preserving your right to compensation. GEICO, like other major insurers, focuses on minimizing payouts and may pressure you into a low settlement early on, potentially through intimidation or misinformation. Fortunately, our car accident attorneys in Eugene, Bend, Medford, Portland, and other Oregon cities are adept at countering these tactics. We are ready to file a lawsuit to protect your right to fair compensation if necessary.

Why Hire an Auto Accident Lawyer for Your Claim?

Hiring an experienced injury lawyer can make a significant difference in handling your GEICO claim. Your lawyer has the skills to navigate insurance adjusters and assess every claim and offer thoroughly, ensuring you are not pressured into a low settlement. This allows you to concentrate on your recovery while we handle the complexities of your claim.

Our car accident attorneys serve clients across Oregon, including Eugene, Bend, Medford, Portland, Grants Pass, and Roseburg. Whether or not you choose to hire us, we’re available for a free consultation to review your case and provide honest advice about your claim options.

Accidents and their financial impacts are overwhelming, and our team is here to support you every step of the way. Dwyer Williams Cherkoss offers free consultations, allowing us to assess your auto insurance claim with GEICO or any other insurer. You can reach us online or by phone at (541) 617-0555.