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How to File a GEICO Claim After a Car Accident in Spokane, Washington

December 15, 2024 – Matt Albrecht

Spokane, WA car accident attorney explains how to file a GEICO claim. Call (509) 495-1246 to schedule a FREE consultation if you’ve been injured and need help.

A car accident can leave you shaken and unsure of what to do next—especially when you’re injured due to another driver’s negligence. But what if the insurance company you’re filing a claim with is GEICO? Known for its quirky gecko mascot and the promise of making insurance “so easy, a caveman could do it,” GEICO’s streamlined branding might leave you wondering if filing a claim with them will actually live up to the hype.

If the at-fault driver in your accident is insured by GEICO, you’ll need to work through their third-party claims process to recover compensation for your injuries and property damage. But don’t let their fast-talking commercials fool you into thinking it’s always straightforward—having a clear plan and understanding your rights under Washington’s fault and negligence laws is key to handling the situation effectively.

In this blog, we’ll explain how to file a GEICO claim as a third-party claimant, what you can expect from the process, and how Washington’s legal framework may impact your case. Whether you’ve already started the process or are just beginning, this blog will give you the information you need to proceed with confidence.

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How Fault and Negligence Work in Washington

Washington follows a pure comparative negligence system, outlined in RCW 4.22.005, which is crucial to understand when filing a claim with GEICO or any insurance company. This system allows you to seek compensation for your damages, even if you are up to 99% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if your damages total $10,000 but you are found to be 20% at fault, you would recover $8,000. This rule is especially important when dealing with GEICO, as insurance companies may attempt to assign partial blame to you to reduce their payout. By being aware of how Washington law applies to your claim, you can better prepare to counter such strategies and advocate for fair compensation.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

How Washington’s Laws Protect You

Washington’s comparative negligence system ensures you can recover damages even if you’re partially at fault. Additionally, the state requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, which includes:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $10,000 for property damage

These coverage limits provide a baseline for the compensation available to you under the at-fault driver’s GEICO policy. However, if your damages exceed these limits, you may need to explore other options, such as underinsured motorist coverage or filing a lawsuit.

Reporting Requirements in Spokane, Washington

Before filing a claim, you must meet Washington’s accident reporting requirements. These include:

  • Immediate Reporting: Call law enforcement if the accident involves injuries, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. In Spokane, officers often file a report at the scene, which will be essential for your claim.
  • Filing a Collision Report: If law enforcement does not respond, you’re responsible for filing a Collision Report with the Washington State Patrol within four days. The form can be accessed here.

Accurate reporting not only complies with state law but also strengthens your claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.

Filing a Third-Party Claim With GEICO

As the injured party, you’ll file a third-party claim with GEICO, which represents the at-fault driver. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Gather Evidence

Begin by collecting all relevant details about the accident, including:

  • The at-fault driver’s name, policy number, and contact information
  • A copy of the police report (or collision report, if applicable)
  • Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
  • Contact details and statements from witnesses

This evidence will support your claim and help establish fault.

Step 2: Contact GEICO

To file your claim, reach out to GEICO through one of these methods:

  • Online: Submit your claim through the GEICO website.
  • Mobile App: File your claim and upload supporting documents directly from GEICO’s app.
  • Phone: Call GEICO’s claims hotline at 1-800-841-3000. Be prepared to provide the policy number of the at-fault driver and details about the accident.

Step 3: Provide Documentation

GEICO will request additional documentation to process your claim, including:

  • Medical bills and records related to your injuries
  • Receipts for any accident-related expenses (e.g., towing, vehicle repairs)
  • Proof of lost wages, if applicable

Submitting complete and accurate information will help expedite your claim.

What to Expect During the Claims Process

What to Expect During the Claims Process

Once you file a third-party claim with GEICO, here’s what typically happens:

  1. Initial Review: A claims adjuster will review the information you provided and may contact you for additional details.
  2. Liability Investigation: The adjuster will investigate the accident to determine fault, including reviewing police reports, witness statements, and photographic evidence.
  3. Damage Assessment: GEICO may request an inspection of your vehicle or photos of the damage to calculate repair costs.
  4. Settlement Offer: If your claim is approved, GEICO will issue a settlement offer. This may cover medical bills, property damage, and other accident-related expenses.

If you disagree with the settlement offer, you have the right to negotiate or seek legal representation to pursue a fair resolution.

Tips for Dealing With GEICO

Insurance companies prioritize minimizing payouts, even when their policyholder is clearly at fault. Keep these tips in mind when dealing with GEICO:

  • Document Everything: Keep records of all communication, including emails and phone calls, with GEICO representatives.
  • Avoid Giving Recorded Statements: GEICO may ask for a recorded statement, but you’re not obligated to provide one. Anything you say can be used to dispute your claim.
  • Be Wary of Quick Offers: GEICO may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your damages. Review the offer carefully and consult with an attorney if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions


Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: How long does the claim process take?

The length of the claim process with GEICO depends on the complexity of the accident, the availability of evidence, and whether liability is disputed. Some claims may be resolved in a few weeks, while others can take several months, especially if injuries or extensive damages are involved. You can track your claim’s progress through GEICO’s online tools or by contacting your claims adjuster.

Q: What happens if I don’t agree with GEICO’s decision?

If GEICO denies your claim or offers a settlement you believe is too low, you can negotiate by presenting additional evidence, such as medical bills, repair estimates, or witness statements. If negotiations fail, consulting an attorney may help you pursue the compensation you deserve through other legal avenues.

Q: Do I need a police report to file a claim with GEICO?

While a police report is not always required, it can significantly strengthen your claim by providing an objective account of the accident. If law enforcement didn’t respond to the scene, you may file a collision report with the Washington State Patrol to document the incident.

Q: Will filing a claim with GEICO affect my insurance rates?

Filing a third-party claim with GEICO won’t affect your insurance rates because you’re not their policyholder. However, if you’re partially at fault for the accident and file a claim with your own insurance, it could impact your premiums.

Q: Can I file a claim with GEICO if the at-fault driver’s policy has lapsed?

If the at-fault driver’s policy is no longer active, GEICO may deny your claim. In this situation, you may need to rely on your own uninsured motorist coverage or consider legal action against the at-fault driver directly.

Q: Does GEICO cover rental car costs while my car is being repaired?

GEICO typically covers rental car costs if the at-fault driver’s liability insurance includes property damage coverage. However, this will depend on their policy terms and the specifics of your claim. Be sure to confirm this with the claims adjuster.

Q: What should I do if I suspect the at-fault driver gave false information?

If you suspect the at-fault driver provided inaccurate or false details, contact the police to verify the information in the accident report. You can also notify GEICO and provide any supporting evidence, such as photos or witness statements, to assist in their investigation.

Filing a third-party claim with GEICO after a car accident in Spokane, Washington, doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding Washington’s negligence laws and preparing a strong claim, you can advocate for the compensation you need to recover from the accident. If you encounter challenges or feel the settlement is insufficient, don’t hesitate to consult with a qualified attorney who can guide you through the process and protect your interests.

Are you having issues with your Geico claim?

Facing Issues With GEICO? Here’s How to Take Action

Dealing with GEICO after an accident isn’t always as simple as their commercials suggest. From low settlement offers to delays or disputes, the claims process can quickly become frustrating—especially when you’re trying to recover from injuries and manage unexpected expenses. If you’re facing these challenges, you don’t have to handle them alone.

At Albrecht Law, we advocate for injured individuals dealing with the complexities of third-party insurance claims. Whether GEICO disputes liability, undervalues your damages, or drags out the claims process, our Spokane car accident attorneys can step in to protect your rights. We’ll handle everything from gathering critical evidence to negotiating with adjusters, and if necessary, pursuing a personal injury claim to ensure all your losses are addressed.

Don’t let delays or low offers jeopardize your recovery. If you’ve been searching for a “Spokane personal injury attorney” or “auto accident law firm near me,” call Albrecht Law at (509) 495-1246(509) 495-1246 to schedule your FREE consultation, or reach out through our confidential online form today. The sooner you connect with us, the sooner we can start building your case and working toward fair compensation.

We proudly serve clients throughout Eastern Washington, including Spokane, Adams, and Grant Counties.

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Copyright © 2024. Albrecht Law PLLC. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Albrecht Law PLLC
5105 E 3rd Ave Ste 101
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
(509) 495-1246(509) 495-1246
https://albrechtlawfirm.com/

Albrecht Law PLLC

5105 E 3rd Ave Ste 101 Spokane Valley, WA 99212

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