Free Consultation (800) 900-9393
Live Chat 24/7

A Comprehensive Guide to Allstate Car Insurance Claims

Managing Partner

11 min read
11 min read

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The impact of your car accident may be felt across nearly every aspect of your life. Fortunately, when someone else is to blame, you may be able to hold them accountable by filing a claim against their auto insurance policy. Dealing with the insurance company can be a tiresome process, especially when the insurer tries to settle your claim for less than you deserve. Working with a highly skilled car accident lawyer from Text Kevin Accident Attorneys may be the best way to get the insurance company to compensate you fairly.

One of the most common insurance companies our clients have had to deal with is Allstate. While Allstate may advertise itself as being the “good hands” you need after an accident, it is important to remember that no matter how memorable the “Mayhem” commercials may be, Allstate is just another insurance company that is definitely not on your side when it comes time to file a car accident claim. Here is more about what you can expect when you need to go through the current insurance claims process with Allstate.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Is Allstate a Good Insurance Company?

Whether Allstate is a “good insurance company” really depends on what you are looking for in an insurance company. Generally, Allstate has good ratings for consumers hoping to bundle their auto and home insurance.While auto insurance costs may be high, when combining a car insurance policy with a homeowners insurance policy, consumers can get a sizable discount. According to Market Watch, Allstate is the 4th largest auto insurance company in the United States. However, according to J.D. Power, Allstate has below-average customer satisfaction reviews.

How do I Contact Allstate Insurance in California?

There are several ways you can get in touch with Allstate depending on why you need to contact them. If you are a policyholder who has been injured in an accident, and you are covered by hospital indemnity, critical illness, or Allstate Benefits, you can reach the Customer Care Center by calling 1-800-521-3535 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 AM to 8 PM EST.

Those interested in learning more about auto insurance policies through Allstate can start an online chat with an Allstate representative 24/7 or call 800-726-6033. While Allstate has agents located throughout the country, the home office location for Allstate benefits is at 1776 American Heritage Life Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32224.

Agents and Brokers

Agents and brokers who need assistance handling existing Allstate policies can reach the Customer Care Center, Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM EST by calling 1-800-521-3535 and pressing “2” to reach the Allstate agent service team. Allstate’s Customer Care Contacts provide the contact information for various areas, including commissions, billing, enrollment, and tech support.

How to File a Claim with Allstate

Filing a claim with Allstate after a car accident is a relatively straightforward process. Once you have gone over the circumstances of your case with your personal injury lawyer from Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, the claims process begins by simply calling Allstate at 1-800-Allstate. When you do, you will get an insurance adjuster on the phone who will ask you questions about the vehicle make and model, your injuries, when and where the accident occurred, and other information surrounding the collision.

If you do not want to get on the phone with an Allstate agent, you may be able to file a claim through the mobile app or website. If you take this approach, you will likely need to answer the same questions that you would have been asked when on the phone with an insurance agent. Make sure you are prepared with the information you need to file your claim completely and accurately.

You should also plan to file your Allstate claim sooner than later. This is because the two-year statute of limitations for car accident claims has already begun to count down under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. Furthermore, Allstate may have specific deadlines that require your claim to be filed shortly after the accident. If your car accident claim is not filed before the deadline, they may have the right to issue a denial.

Note
Do not file your claim with Allstate until you have spoken with your attorney. The insurance adjuster will likely request a recorded statement which could be used against you in the negotiation process. With your car accident attorney by your side, you do not need to worry about saying something that could be taken out of context or misconstrued.

How Long Do You Have to Report an Accident to Allstate Insurance?

The amount of time you have to report an accident to Allstate insurance will vary based on the specific circumstances of your case. Allstate does not list a public time limit for claim filings. However, individual policies may have stipulations that require claims to be filed within several days or weeks of an accident. One of the most common reasons insurance companies deny claims is because they are not filed “promptly”.

Taking action on your insurance claim sooner may be well-advised. The more quickly we can begin investigating and building your case against the liable party the better. Allstate will need to open up an investigation into how the accident occurred and who may be responsible. When you are involved in an accident that is not your fault, making sure Allstate has access to the time-sensitive evidence you need to support your case should be a top priority. This might include video surveillance footage from dash or cameras that could be eased or overwritten within days or weeks after the collision.

Tip
Keep a detailed journal that describes the various ways your life has been affected by the collision and the injuries you sustained. You have the right to be repaid in full for your damages, so it is essential for you to be able to prove to Allstate that your injuries have significantly impacted your life.

Is Allstate Good at Paying Claims?

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, Allstate has a high complaint index. While the average for insurance providers across the country is 1.00, Allstate’s complaint index exceeds 3.00 at 3.06. However, according to J.D. Power Claims Satisfaction Reports, Allstate earned a score of 882 out of 1,000, which indicates moderately higher claims satisfaction levels than the national average.

Pro Tip
Do not expect the negotiation process to be easy. When you file a claim with Allstate, expect the insurance company to try to get you to settle for less than your claim is worth. That does not mean you need to accept an insultingly low settlement offer, but when you are prepared, you can continue to confidently negotiate settlement terms.

How Long Does Allstate Take to Pay a Claim?

The amount of time it takes Allstate to pay a claim varies depending on which payment option you select. Whether you are filing a claim through Allstate’s mobile app or the claim center, the insurance company offers multiple payment options, including:
  • Mobile e-payments – Mobile e-payments can take up to 48 hours. The insurance adjuster will need your cell phone number or email address to process your payment. You will need to register with the mobile e-payments system to use this option.
  • Debit card payments – The “quick card pay” option is considered the quickest payment method. Within 24 hours, Allstate can send your settlement to your bank account with just your debit card number.
  • Check – Checks take the longest amount of time to process. You will need to provide Allstate with your address so they can mail you a check. It will generally arrive within 10 business days of mailing.
  • Direct deposit – if you choose direct deposit, you will need to provide Allstate with your bank account and routing numbers. This option will allow your settlement to reach your bank account within five business days.

How Much Does Allstate Pay for Bodily Injury?

Bodily injury (BI) liability coverage is designed to cover your medical expenses when you are involved in an accident that is not your fault. All motorists are required to carry auto insurance coverage according to the California Department of Insurance. The bare minimum amount of coverage that is required under the law is $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. Allstate gives motorists the option of increasing their bodily injury liability coverage to as much as $250,000 per person and $500,000 per accident.

How Do I Dispute a Claim with Allstate?

It is not uncommon for Allstate to deny even the most deserving of claimants. Insurance companies like Allstate make money by paying out as little as possible when injury victims file claims. If Allstate decides to deny your claim or make you a lowball settlement offer, you are under no obligation to accept it. Instead, you can report your denial to your legal advocate and consider your options.In many cases, by simply providing Allstate with additional supporting evidence, we can get your denial overturned. We may need to provide copies of your medical records, video footage of the accident, photos of your injuries, and copies of your personal journal entries to demonstrate the severity of your injuries. However, if we have reason to believe that Allstate is handling your claim in bad faith, we will be prepared to take additional legal action against them. We are not afraid to handle tough insurance claims and bring your case to trial if need be.

Frequently Asked Questions About Allstate Insurance

What is an Allstate insurance claim?
An Allstate insurance claim is a claim you file against Allstate seeking compensation for your damages. After a car accident, you will likely be able to demand compensation for your medical bills and property damages. In some cases, you may also be able to include rental car expenses as part of your claim. You can find out which damages Allstate will be expected to cover after reviewing the liable party’s auto insurance policy in detail with your car accident lawyer from Text Kevin Accident Attorneys.
Can you file an Allstate insurance claim without a police report?

You can file a car accident insurance claim with Allstate even if you do not file a police report. You are legally required to report your car accident if anyone is injured or property damages reach or exceed $1,000 according to the CA Department of Motor Vehicles. However, if you are filing a homeowners insurance claim, Allstate requires you to file a police report for theft.

How soon can you file a claim after getting Allstate insurance?

As long as you have an active Allstate insurance policy, you can file a claim as soon as the policy goes into effect. However, coverage will only apply from that date forward. If you were involved in an accident a couple of days before your Allstate policy went into effect, the insurance company would not cover these damages.

Does Allstate insurance go up after a claim?

Yes, after a car accident, Allstate insurance rates may go up. Being involved in an accident can affect your insurance rates for up to five years. However, Allstate offers policyholders additional coverage known as "Accident Forgiveness” that ensures rates will not increase after an accident, even if the accident was your fault. It is worth noting that California has strict laws in place according to the California Department of Insurance which prevent insurance companies from increasing auto insurance rates when you file an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim or are involved in an accident that was not your fault.

Can Allstate Insurance deny a claim?
Yes, Allstate has the right to deny insurance claims if claims are not filed "as soon as possible", they believe you are exaggerating the extent of your injuries, the policyholder has a lapse in coverage, or your damages are not covered by the insured’s policy.
Does Allstate cover rental cars?
Motorists are not required to carry rental car insurance, but Allstate does offer rental reimbursement coverage. After a motor vehicle accident, if you are a policyholder, you may be able to get your rental car fees covered by Allstate. However, if you are not insured with Allstate or protected by any type of rental reimbursement coverage, the insurance company will only need to cover your rental car costs if the policyholder has rental reimbursement coverage.

Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm Today for Assistance Handling Your Allstate Insurance Claim

Although Allstate has a positive reputation among policyholders, when you are filing a claim with this insurance giant, you can expect pushback. Allstate will lose money if they have to pay out on your claim, so the insurance adjusters will likely look for opportunities to reduce your settlement. Having an experienced and knowledgeable negotiator on your side could make all the difference.

Text Kevin Accident Attorneys is here to guide you through the insurance claims process and protect you from being taken advantage of. When you do not know where to turn for help after an accident, look to dedicated car accident attorney Kevin Crockett for the legal guidance and support you need when you need it most. Fill out our online contact form or call us to schedule your 100% free consultation.

Kevin received both his bachelor’s degree and law degree from the University of California, Irvine. He is the managing partner of Text Kevin Accident Attorneys and is recognized as a standout in plaintiffs’ litigation for personal injury law by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected legal peer-review publisher. Kevin has written for several law magazines and is an award-winning car accident lawyer in California.

Check the Strength of Your Car Accident Case

Check the boxes that apply to you to see how strong your case is

Case Strengthometer

"strengthometer" imagearrow for "strengthometer"
0%
note icon The "Strengthometer" should not be relied upon as a replacement for professional legal counsel, nor should it be utilized in such a manner. The "Strengthometer" serves solely for promotional purposes, offering visitors an insight into possible case elements. Your specific case will entail distinctive factors and should be assessed independently by a competent attorney.
lighter background dots
lighter background dots

Get 24/7 Support

Our California Offices:
Text Kevin Accident Attorneys

7700 Irvine Center Dr, Ste 400
Irvine, CA 92618
Call: 714-714-7100
Text: 714-714-7100

Directions

Office Hours

  • Monday Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday Open 24 hours
  • Thursday Open 24 hours
  • Friday Open 24 hours
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours
Text Kevin Accident Attorneys

617 S Harbor Blvd, Unit A
Anaheim, CA 92805
Call: 714-714-7100
Text: 714-714-7100

Directions

Office Hours

  • Monday Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday Open 24 hours
  • Thursday Open 24 hours
  • Friday Open 24 hours
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours
Text Kevin Accident Attorneys

106 W 4th St, Ste 315
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Call: 714-714-7100
Text: 714-714-7100

Directions

Office Hours

  • Monday Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday Open 24 hours
  • Thursday Open 24 hours
  • Friday Open 24 hours
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours
Text Kevin Accident Attorneys

13800 Heacock St, Ste C230H
Moreno Valley, CA 92553
Call: 951-234-3818
Text: 951-234-3818

Directions

Office Hours

  • Monday Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday Open 24 hours
  • Thursday Open 24 hours
  • Friday Open 24 hours
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours
Text Kevin Accident Attorneys

12440 Firestone Blvd, Ste 3025-A
Norwalk, CA 90650
Call: 562-579-2329
Text: 562-579-2329

Directions

Office Hours

  • Monday Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday Open 24 hours
  • Thursday Open 24 hours
  • Friday Open 24 hours
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours
Text Kevin Accident Attorneys

44105 Jackson St, Ste 310
Indio, CA 92201
Call: 760-400-0000
Text: 760-400-0000

Directions

Office Hours

  • Monday Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday Open 24 hours
  • Thursday Open 24 hours
  • Friday Open 24 hours
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours
Text Kevin Accident Attorneys

201 N Palm Canyon Dr, Ste 220C
Palm Springs, CA 92262
Call: 760-400-0000
Text: 760-400-0000

Directions

Office Hours

  • Monday Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday Open 24 hours
  • Thursday Open 24 hours
  • Friday Open 24 hours
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours

Get a FREE Case Review

Get a FREE Case Review

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
protect icon

100% Secure & Confidential

Kevin received both his bachelor’s degree and law degree from the University of California, Irvine. He is the managing partner of Text Kevin Accident Attorneys and is recognized as a standout in plaintiffs’ litigation for personal injury law by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected legal peer-review publisher. Kevin has written for several law magazines and is an award-winning car accident lawyer in California.

Kevin Crockett

Click to start your free consultation

Our team is available 24/7