I've been trying to wrap my head around how insurance claims work here in South Dakota. From what I gather, we're an at-fault state, meaning whoever caused the accident pays for damages. Basically, step one: call police and document everything at the scene. Step two: exchange info and contact your insurance. Step three: wait for fault determination. Um...does anyone have a simpler way of explaining this or tips to make the process smoother?
You're pretty much on the right track already. But honestly, the whole 'wait for fault determination' step can sometimes feel endless...insurance companies love dragging their feet on that one, believe me. Best tip I can give: be annoyingly thorough at step one. Snap photos from every angle imaginable, note down specifics (weather, road conditions, witnesses), and don't trust memory alone—little details can swing the decision your way faster. Wish it was simpler, but that's insurance for ya...
"Snap photos from every angle imaginable, note down specifics (weather, road conditions, witnesses), and don't trust memory alone—little details can swing the decision your way faster."
Couldn't agree more with this. A few years back, I had a minor fender-bender that turned into a months-long headache because I missed noting down the weather conditions clearly (it was drizzling, roads were slick). Learned my lesson the hard way...now I keep a small notebook and pen in the glovebox just in case. You're doing the right things already, just stay patient and thorough—insurance is always a waiting game.
Keeping notes is smart, but honestly, snapping quick pics with your phone covers most bases these days. I had a similar issue last winter—icy roads, poor visibility—and the photos I took showing tire tracks and ice patches ended up being way more helpful than my scribbled notes. Insurance adjusters seem to trust visual evidence more anyway. Just something to consider...
Yeah, photos definitely help. I had a fender bender a couple years back in Sioux Falls, nothing major but enough to be a headache. The pics I took of the damage and the intersection ended up saving me a lot of hassle later. One thing I'd add is to get the police report number right away—makes it easier when you're talking to insurance later on. Also, don't rush to admit fault at the scene, even if you think it might've been your mistake. Let the adjusters sort that out; they're paid to figure out the details. And if your car's drivable, shop around a bit for repair estimates. Insurance companies usually have preferred shops, but sometimes you can find a cheaper place yourself and save a few bucks on your deductible. Just my two cents from dealing with this stuff more times than I'd like...
