Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers | November 28, 2025 | Car Accident
Filing a claim with Allstate after a car crash can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re hurt and your car is in the shop. Acting quickly is crucial because evidence can fade, and insurance deadlines must be met. Knowing what to say and what not to say when Allstate calls can help you avoid mistakes and strengthen your claim.
This step-by-step guide explains how the process works, what to look out for, and how to protect your rights from the outset.
Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe and Document the Scene
Your health comes first. Get medical care, even if you feel “okay.” Many injuries may not appear for hours or days.
If you can, gather basics at the scene:
- Photos of vehicle damage, the road, debris, and any visible injuries
- Names and contact details for witnesses
- The other driver’s insurance card and license information
A short, organized file of photos and notes will help your claim later.
Step 2: Report the Crash to Allstate
You can open a claim through the Allstate app, online, or by phone—when you do, be ready with:
- Date, time, and location of the crash
- Policy numbers for all drivers
- Police report number (if available)
If you speak to an adjuster, share the facts calmly. You don’t need to guess fault or offer opinions. If Allstate insures you, your policy may include coverages such as collision, medical payments (MedPay), or personal injury protection (PIP), depending on your state and the selections you make.
Step 3: Expect a Claim Number and an Adjuster
Allstate will assign a claim number and an adjuster to your case. The adjuster’s job is to evaluate liability and damages.
Be polite and responsive, but careful. You can decline a recorded statement until you understand the questions and feel prepared to proceed. Do not speculate about injuries or “downplay” pain. Stick to what doctors have told you, and keep copies of all emails and letters.
Step 4: Arrange a Vehicle Inspection and Estimate
Allstate may send you to a drive-in inspection center, a network shop, or a mobile estimator. You have the right to choose your repair shop. If your car is a total loss, the insurer will calculate “actual cash value” based on condition, mileage, and local sales data. Review the valuation report closely and ask for comparable sales (comps) if anything appears to be off.
Step 5: Track Medical Care and Expenses
Strong documentation is the backbone of an injury claim.
Start a simple binder or digital folder to keep track of:
- ER/urgent care records, imaging, and specialist notes
- Prescriptions, mileage to appointments, and out-of-pocket costs
- A brief daily pain journal describing limits at work and home
This evidence demonstrates how the crash impacted your life, not just your finances.
Step 6: Understand Common Coverages
Policies and state laws differ, but these coverages may be applicable:
- Bodily injury liability: Pays others if you’re at fault (limits apply)
- PIP/MedPay: Helps cover medical bills promptly, regardless of fault (availability varies)
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage: Can step in if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance
Confirm your limits and deductibles early to avoid any surprises.
Step 7: Build a Demand Package
Once you reach maximum medical improvement or your doctor can estimate future care, your attorney (or you, if unrepresented) can send a demand to Allstate.
A strong demand includes:
- Liability summary with photos and police report excerpts
- Medical records and bills, wage loss proof, and a clear narrative of your recovery
- A reasoned settlement figure supported by the evidence
Avoid settling too soon; you generally get one chance to resolve a bodily injury claim.
Step 8: Negotiate for a Fair Settlement Offer
Allstate may counter with a lower offer. Negotiation is normal.
Here are some factors to consider once you have received an offer:
- Are all injuries and future care accounted for?
- Is there a lien (health insurance, workers’ comp, or medical providers) that will reduce your net recovery?
- Would an independent medical exam or expert letter strengthen your case?
Your lawyer can help you assess any settlement offers to ensure you’re getting the compensation you deserve. If talks stall, you may file a lawsuit within the legal deadline for your state. Deadlines are strict; missing them can result in the termination of your claim.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyers at Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’re navigating an Allstate claim after a crash, you don’t have to do it alone. For more information, contact an experienced Prince George’s County car accident lawyer at Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
For more information, please contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Charles County, Prince George’s County, and its surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Waldorf Office
8 Post Office Rd Waldorf, MD 20602
(301) 932-9997
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste #200 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 936-0011
Available 24/7