Car accidents can turn life upside down in an instant. Whether you’re dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, or the stress of the claims process, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. GEICO is known for saying, “15 minutes could save you 15% or more on car insurance,” but saving money isn’t your biggest concern after a crash—getting your claim handled is.
If you have GEICO insurance, knowing what to do next can make a big difference in how smoothly your claim moves forward. This blog explains the process of filing a GEICO claim after a car accident in West Palm Beach, covering key steps to take after your accident, common challenges, and what to expect along the way.
Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
One of the first steps after a crash is notifying the police. Florida law requires you to report an accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. In most cases, this means calling the police to the scene. Officers will document what happened, collect witness statements, and file an official crash report. This report can be essential when dealing with GEICO, as it provides a formal record of the accident.
You can request a copy of the crash report through the FLHSMV Crash Portal, which typically makes reports available within 10 days.
Gather Important Information at the Scene
If you’re able to, collect details that will support your claim:
- The other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details
- Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
- Contact information for any witnesses
- The name and badge number of the responding officer
- Road conditions, weather, and anything else that could have contributed to the crash
This information can provide strong evidence if there’s a dispute over liability or damages.
Report the Claim to GEICO
You can file your GEICO claim in one of three ways:
- Online at geico.com/claims
- Report and track your claim with the GEICO mobile app (available for iOS and Android)
- Call GEICO’s claims hotline at (800) 841-3000
When reporting the claim, GEICO will ask for details about the accident, including the date, time, location, and parties involved. If you have a copy of the police report, you may need to provide that as well.
What Happens After You File the Claim?
Once your claim is submitted, GEICO assigns an adjuster to review the details and determine coverage. The adjuster may:
- Request additional information, such as repair estimates or medical records
- Inspect your vehicle or arrange an appraisal
- Discuss coverage limits based on your policy
- Contact the other driver’s insurance if liability is in question
If you were injured, you may need to file a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim under Florida’s no-fault insurance laws. Florida requires drivers to carry at least $10,000 in PIP coverage, which helps pay for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault.
Getting Your Car Repaired
GEICO offers options for vehicle repairs, including:
- Using a GEICO-approved repair shop – GEICO partners with auto body shops in its Auto Repair Xpress® program, where repairs are guaranteed for as long as you own the vehicle.
- Choosing your own repair shop – You are not required to use a GEICO-approved shop, but you may need to provide estimates or wait for an adjuster’s approval.
If your car is a total loss, GEICO will calculate its market value and issue a settlement based on the terms of your policy.
Medical Bills and Injury Claims
If you were hurt in the crash, your PIP benefits will cover 80% of medical expenses up to your policy limit. However, if your injuries are serious, you may be able to step outside Florida’s no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.
Florida law allows you to seek compensation beyond PIP if you have:
- Permanent injuries
- Significant scarring or disfigurement
- Loss of bodily function
Common Challenges When Filing a GEICO Claim
Some claimants run into delays or disputes when dealing with GEICO. Here are a few potential issues:
- Liability disputes – If the other driver denies fault or there’s conflicting evidence, GEICO may conduct a more thorough investigation before making a decision.
- Low settlement offers – The initial payout may not fully cover your losses, especially if you have long-term injuries or extensive vehicle damage.
- Delays in processing – Missing documents, conflicting reports, or backlogged claims can slow things down.
If you run into problems, staying persistent and providing thorough documentation can keep the process moving.
When to Consider Legal Guidance
If your injuries are severe, the insurance company is not treating you fairly, or your claim has been denied, you may want to discuss your case with a West Palm Beach car accident attorney. Florida’s insurance laws can be complicated, and an attorney can assess whether you have grounds for a claim beyond PIP coverage.
Filing a GEICO claim after a car accident in West Palm Beach doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Reporting the accident promptly, gathering evidence, and staying on top of the process can improve your chances of a fair outcome. If your injuries are severe or you run into challenges with your claim, exploring your legal options may be worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do I have to file a claim with GEICO after an accident in Florida?
A: GEICO sets no strict deadline, but it’s best to file your claim as soon as possible. Delays can complicate the claims process, especially if evidence or witness statements are needed. If you plan to pursue a personal injury claim, Florida’s statute of limitations requires you to file a lawsuit within two years of the accident.
Q: Does GEICO require me to give a recorded statement?
A: GEICO may ask for a recorded statement, but you are not required to provide one immediately. Be cautious, as anything you say could impact your claim. If your injuries are significant or liability is in question, consider speaking with a car accident attorney before giving a statement.
Q: Will GEICO cover a rental car while my vehicle is being repaired?
A: Rental car coverage depends on your policy. If you have rental reimbursement coverage, GEICO will pay a daily amount for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. If you don’t have this coverage, you must cover rental costs unless the at-fault driver’s insurance agrees to pay.
Q: What happens if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
A: If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to rely on your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you have it. Florida does not require drivers to carry UM/UIM coverage, so check your policy to see if you’re protected.
Q: How does GEICO determine fault in an accident?
A: GEICO reviews police reports, witness statements, photos, vehicle damage, and Florida traffic laws to determine fault. Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning if you are partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Don’t Let GEICO Decide Your Future—Take Control with DiBiaggio Law
Dealing with GEICO after a car accident isn’t always as simple as filing a claim and waiting for a fair payout. If you’re getting lowball offers, facing delays, or struggling to get answers, you don’t have to accept it. Attorney Deirdre DiBiaggio fights for accident victims in South Florida, making sure insurance companies don’t cut corners at your expense.
Insurance companies focus on their bottom line—you need someone looking out for yours. Whether it’s pushing back against unfair fault determinations, negotiating for full compensation, or preparing for litigation if necessary, DiBiaggio Law is ready to step in.
If you’ve been searching online for a “lawyer for auto insurance claim” or “accident lawyers in West Palm Beach,” call (561) 473-9800 or fill out our confidential online form to schedule your FREE consultation. We’ll discuss your claim, your rights, and how to move forward. The clock is ticking—Florida law sets strict deadlines, so take action now.
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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.
DiBiaggio Law
605 Belvedere Road, Suite 17
West Palm Beach, FL 33405
(561) 473-9800
https://www.dibiaggiolaw.com
