How to File an AAA Car Accident Claim | GoSuits

• What should you do at the crash scene before starting an AAA claim?
• How do you start an AAA auto insurance claim in Texas, California, and Illinois?
• What documents and evidence do you need for an AAA car accident claim?
• How does an AAA first-party claim differ from a third-party claim?
• What claim handling timelines apply in TX, CA, and IL when you file with AAA?
• How do AAA property damage and total loss processes work?
• How are AAA bodily injury claims evaluated and paid?
• Does AAA provide rental car coverage after a crash and what are the limits?
• How do AAA uninsured and underinsured motorist claims work in TX, CA, and IL?
• How can you negotiate with AAA and draft a compelling demand letter?
• What if AAA denies or underpays your claim? Can you appeal or complain?
• When should you consider filing a lawsuit and what are the statutes of limitations?
• How should you communicate with the AAA claims adjuster?
• What common mistakes should you avoid with AAA claims?
• How should defendants or insured drivers respond to an AAA claim against them?
• Are personal injury settlements from AAA taxable?
• Why do injured people in TX, CA, and IL choose GoSuits for AAA claims?
• Authoritative resources cited

What should you do at the crash scene before starting an AAA claim?

Safety and documentation in the first minutes after a crash set the foundation for any AAA auto insurance claim. Whether the collision happened in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, El Paso, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, Orange County, Chicago, Cook County, Naperville, Joliet, or anywhere in Texas, California, or Illinois, follow these steps.

• Check for injuries and call 911. Request police and, if needed, paramedics.
• Move vehicles out of traffic if safe. Use hazard lights. Do not leave the scene.
• Exchange info. Names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, vehicle plates, insurance company and policy number. If the other driver has AAA, note that for a potential third-party AAA claim.
• Document the scene. Take photos and short videos of vehicle positions, damage, debris, skid marks, roadway conditions, traffic controls, and injuries. Include wide and close shots. Capture the VIN labels if possible.
• Identify witnesses. Get names and contact details. Ask nearby businesses if cameras may have captured the crash.
• Request a police report number. In many cities like Los Angeles and Houston, officers give a report or incident number at the scene. Later, obtain the official crash report when it is ready.
• Seek medical evaluation promptly. Delays can hurt your health and the credibility of your AAA bodily injury claim.
• Preserve property and receipts. Towing invoices, rental costs, rideshare receipts, medical co-pays, and repair estimates all matter.

Serious crashes are common. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports an estimated 40,990 traffic fatalities in 2023 nationwide, a decrease from 2022 but still a significant public safety concern NHTSA 2023 Early Estimates.

How do you start an AAA auto insurance claim in Texas, California, and Illinois?

You can start an AAA car accident claim as either the AAA policyholder or an injured third party when the at-fault driver carries AAA. Insurers use different regional entities, such as CSAA Insurance Group in parts of CA, the Auto Club of Southern California, and The Auto Club Group in parts of IL and other states. Your declaration page or ID card lists the correct claims department.

How do you file a car accident claim with AAA by phone?

• Use the AAA claims phone number printed on your insurance card. It connects you to your regional AAA claims department.
• Have key details ready. Date, time, location, your policy number, other driver’s information, a brief description, injuries, and police report number if available.
• Ask for your claim number and the adjuster’s name, phone, and email.

Can you file an AAA claim online or in an app?

• AAA claim online options are available in many regions through your member or policyholder portal.
• Upload photos and documents directly if the portal supports it.
• Check messages for requests from your adjuster and deadlines.

Should you file with AAA or the other driver’s insurer?

• If you have collision coverage, first-party AAA property damage claims may be faster. AAA will later seek reimbursement from the at-fault insurer through subrogation.
• If the other driver is clearly at fault, you can pursue a third-party claim directly with that insurer, which may be AAA. You are not bound by AAA’s policy contract in a third-party claim, but state laws still control claims handling.
• For injuries, consider uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage with AAA when the at-fault driver is uninsured or inadequately insured, subject to your policy and state law.

What documents and evidence do you need for an AAA car accident claim?

• Police report or incident number. Obtain the official report when available.
• Photos and videos of damage, the scene, injuries, and the surrounding area.
• Medical records and bills. Include diagnostic imaging and treatment plans for a bodily injury claim.
• Proof of lost wages. Employer letter, pay stubs, or tax returns supporting time off work.
• Repair estimates or an inspection report. Many AAA adjusters will schedule an inspection or use approved shops.
• Out-of-pocket expenses. Towing, rental, rideshare, medications, medical supplies.
• Insurance documents. Your declarations page and any endorsements for coverages like rental, MedPay, or UM/UIM.

How does an AAA first-party claim differ from a third-party claim?

This is a claim under your own AAA policy, such as collision, comprehensive, MedPay, or UM/UIM. Your rights arise from the policy and state insurance laws. In Texas, prompt-payment rules apply to first-party claims and set timelines for acknowledgment, decision, and payment under Insurance Code Chapter 542 Subchapter B Tex. Ins. Code ch. 542.

What is a third-party AAA claim?

This is a liability claim you make against an at-fault driver’s AAA policy. You are not a party to that contract. States regulate fair claims practices, but timelines and remedies can differ from first-party claims. For example, Texas prompt-payment deadlines generally do not apply to third-party claims, although adjusters must still handle claims fairly and reasonably under state law.

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What claim handling timelines apply in TX, CA, and IL when you file with AAA?

Each state sets claims-handling standards that apply to insurers like AAA. The exact deadlines can vary depending on whether your claim is first-party or third-party and on what the insurer has received.

What are the Texas AAA claim timelines?

• Acknowledgment. Insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 calendar days of notice and begin investigation. They may request necessary items promptly.
• Decision. An insurer must accept or reject a first-party claim within 15 business days after receiving all requested items, statements, and forms. It may extend up to 45 days if it provides a written reason for the delay.
• Payment. When a claim is approved, payment must be made within 5 business days after notifying the claimant of acceptance. See the Texas Prompt Payment of Claims Act Tex. Ins. Code § 542.051 et seq..

What are California claim deadlines that affect AAA?

California’s Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations set consumer-facing timelines:

• Acknowledge communications within 15 calendar days.
• Provide necessary claim forms and instructions within 15 days.
• Accept or deny the claim in whole or in part within 40 calendar days after receiving proof of claim.
• Pay undisputed amounts immediately upon acceptance and generally within 30 calendar days of settlement.

See the California Department of Insurance overview of the Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations California Department of Insurance and Title 10, California Code of Regulations, section 2695.5 and related sections.

What claim timelines apply in Illinois?

Illinois regulates fair claims practices and consumer protections. The Illinois Department of Insurance provides consumer guidance on auto claims handling expectations and complaint rights Illinois Department of Insurance. Typical standards include timely acknowledgment of claims and prompt, fair settlement after liability becomes reasonably clear. For specific administrative rules, see Illinois Administrative Code Part 919 regarding unfair claims practices through the Illinois General Assembly or Department of Insurance resources.

Keep in mind that timelines can be affected by missing information, contested liability, or medical complexity. Document what you send and follow up in writing if deadlines pass without action.

How is vehicle damage estimated and paid?

• Inspection. AAA may schedule a physical inspection or request photo estimates. You can usually choose your repair shop.
• Estimate review. The adjuster compares shop estimates to market labor rates, parts prices, and repair methodologies. OEM vs aftermarket parts can be disputed depending on policy language and state rules.
• Payment. First-party collision claims sometimes pay the shop directly or reimburse you. Deductibles apply unless waived by subrogation recovery.

What is the AAA total loss process?

• Actual Cash Value. If repair costs plus potential salvage exceed the vehicle’s actual cash value, the vehicle may be declared a total loss. The payout is generally the actual cash value less any deductible in first-party claims.
• Valuation. AAA will use a valuation method to determine market value. You can counter with comparable listings and receipts for options or recent major work.
• Title and salvage. Your state’s DMV will apply title branding rules. California, Texas, and Illinois each have salvage title processes through their motor vehicle agencies.
• Sales tax and fees. Many states require payment of applicable taxes and title fees when replacing a totaled vehicle. Ask your adjuster what is included in your state.

What damages can you claim for injuries?

• Medical expenses. Hospital visits, imaging, physical therapy, prescriptions.
• Lost income. Missing work or reduced earning capacity with medical support.
• Pain and suffering. Human impact of the injuries supported by records and consistent treatment.
• Out-of-pocket costs. Transportation to treatment, medical devices, home modifications when appropriate.

How do adjusters assess injury claims?

• Liability and causation. Whether their insured is at fault and whether the crash caused the claimed injuries.
• Medical consistency. Timeliness of care, objective findings, and consistency in symptoms across providers.
• Policy limits. Bodily injury liability limits cap third-party payments. UM/UIM limits cap first-party protections.
• Comparative fault. In Texas, California, and Illinois, partial fault can reduce recovery. The percentage reduction depends on the state’s negligence rules.

Does AAA provide rental car coverage after a crash and what are the limits?

Rental reimbursement is often an optional endorsement in AAA policies. Typical features:

• Daily and maximum limits. For example, a daily cap with a total number of days. Check your declarations page.
• Trigger. Often available when your car is undrivable or in the shop due to a covered loss. Third-party rental from the at-fault insurer may be available when liability is accepted.
• Direct billing. Some rental companies bill AAA directly. Keep receipts if you pay out of pocket.

How do AAA uninsured and underinsured motorist claims work in TX, CA, and IL?

UM and UIM coverages protect you when an at-fault driver lacks enough insurance. The availability and requirements come from state law and your policy.

What are the UM/UIM laws in Texas?

• Offer required. Texas law requires insurers to offer UM and UIM coverage. It can be rejected in writing Tex. Ins. Code § 1952.101 et seq..
• First-party claim. You present your claim to AAA. You must prove the other driver was liable and uninsured or underinsured, and the extent of your damages.

How does California regulate UM/UIM?

• Mandatory offer. California requires insurers to offer UM coverage. Rejection must meet statutory form requirements Cal. Ins. Code § 11580.2.
• Arbitration. Many CA UM/UIM disputes proceed by contractual arbitration under the policy.

What about Illinois UM/UIM rules?

• UM required. Illinois mandates UM coverage at certain minimums and addresses UIM coverage by statute 215 ILCS 5/143a and 215 ILCS 5/143a-2.
• Setoffs and credits. UIM recovery may be reduced by the at-fault driver’s liability limits as defined by statute and policy language.

How can you negotiate with AAA and draft a compelling demand letter?

What should a demand letter to AAA include?

• Liability summary. Explain how the crash happened with photos, diagrams, and references to the police report.
• Injuries and treatment. Chronological medical narrative with diagnoses and key records.
• Damages. Itemized medical bills, lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses, and a discussion of pain and suffering.
• Policy references. Applicable coverages and limits, such as AAA bodily injury liability, MedPay, or UM/UIM.
• Settlement demand. A specific amount within policy limits with a reasonable response date.

How do you negotiate with an AAA claims adjuster?

• Be organized. Provide requested materials once, in a complete packet. Keep a log of all calls and emails.
• Address disputed issues. Use objective proof for causation and the necessity of treatment.
• Counter incrementally. Defend your number with evidence. Ask the adjuster to explain the valuation methodology and any reductions.
• Protect your rights. Do not miss your state’s statute of limitations while negotiating.

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What if AAA denies or underpays your claim? Can you appeal or complain?

• Request a written explanation. Ask AAA to cite policy provisions and facts supporting denial or reductions.
• Supplement the record. Provide missing records, witness statements, or expert opinions.
• Escalate to a supervisor. Many disputes are resolved with a fresh review.
• File a regulator complaint. You can contact your state’s insurance department for help:

• Texas: Texas Department of Insurance
• California: California Department of Insurance
• Illinois: Illinois Department of Insurance

• Consider litigation or arbitration. First-party disputes may involve contract claims, bad faith remedies where permitted, or policy-based arbitration such as CA UM/UIM. Third-party claims may require filing suit against the at-fault driver.

When should you consider filing a lawsuit and what are the statutes of limitations?

Negotiations do not stop the clock. If the settlement does not occur in time, you may need to file in court to preserve your rights. Statutes differ by state and claim type, and shorter deadlines may apply for claims against government entities.

• Texas. For most personal injury and property damage claims from motor vehicle crashes, the limitations period is generally two years from the date of the accident Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003.
• California. Personal injury claims are generally two years from injury Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1. Property damage is often three years Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 338. Claims against public entities have much shorter administrative claim deadlines under the Government Claims Act.
• Illinois. Personal injury is generally two years 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Property damage claims are often five years 735 ILCS 5/13-205.

These are general references. Exceptions and special rules can change the time to file, especially for minors, wrongful death, government defendants, and contract-based UM/UIM arbitrations. Speak with a qualified personal injury lawyer as early as possible to calendar the correct deadline.

How should you communicate with the AAA claims adjuster?

• Be polite and concise. Confirm facts you know first-hand. Avoid speculation.
• Recorded statements. In first-party claims, your policy may require cooperation, which can include a recorded statement. In third-party claims, you do not usually have to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. Consider legal help before agreeing.
• Medical authorizations. Provide targeted records related to the crash. Overbroad releases can expose unrelated history.
• Consistency. Keep your description of pain and limitations consistent across providers and forms.
• Written follow-up. Summarize key calls by email and request confirmation of deadlines.

What common mistakes should you avoid with AAA claims?

• Delaying medical care. Gaps in treatment can be used to question causation.
• Posting on social media. Photos and comments can be taken out of context.
• Missing state deadlines. The statute of limitations can bar your claim if missed.
• Accepting quick low offers. Early settlements may not cover future treatment or wage loss.
• Signing broad releases. Read authorizations and settlement documents carefully.
• Not documenting expenses. Keep receipts and mileage for all crash-related costs.

How should defendants or insured drivers respond to an AAA claim against them?

If you are an AAA policyholder and someone makes a claim against you, act promptly.

• Notify AAA immediately. Report the crash even if you believe you were not at fault.
• Send lawsuit papers. If you are served in Texas, California, or Illinois, forward the documents to AAA the same day. Failing to respond can cause a default judgment.
• Cooperate with the defense. Your policy likely requires cooperation with AAA’s investigation and appointed defense counsel if a lawsuit is filed.
• Do not admit fault. Provide facts, not conclusions, and let AAA and any assigned attorney handle liability communications.

Are personal injury settlements from AAA taxable?

Generally, compensatory damages for personal physical injuries or physical sickness are excluded from gross income under federal law. However, portions for interest or punitive damages are taxable, and there are nuances if no physical injury is involved. See IRS guidance on the taxability of settlements for details IRS Settlements Taxability. Consider speaking with a tax professional about your specific circumstances.

What do national crash statistics tell us about the need to act quickly?

NHTSA’s early estimates show 40,990 traffic fatalities in 2023, down 3.6 percent from 2022 but still troubling. Urban areas like Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago experience high traffic volumes, and even seemingly minor collisions can create complex injury claims. Early documentation and timely filing with AAA help protect your rights NHTSA 2023 Early Estimates.

Why do injured people in TX, CA, and IL choose GoSuits for AAA claims?

If you were hurt in a crash and need to file an AAA car accident claim in Texas, California, or Illinois, legal help can make a difference. AAA claims involve policy interpretation, medical proof, negotiations with claims adjusters, and careful timing under state law. A free consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys can clarify your path, preserve deadlines, and help you avoid pitfalls with recorded statements, medical authorizations, and settlement documents.

GoSuits represents clients across Texas, California, and Illinois in auto collision cases, including AAA auto insurance claims. We built our practice around a technology-driven approach that speeds up evidence collection, claim submissions, and negotiations without sacrificing personal attention. Our exclusive proprietary software centralizes medical records, bills, crash data, and photos to move claims forward faster and with fewer errors.

• Designated attorneys. Every client works directly with a designated attorney. We do not use case managers. You have open access to your lawyer for updates and strategy discussions.
• Proven results. We are proud of outcomes we have obtained for injured clients. See examples of our past results here: GoSuits Prior Cases. Results depend on the facts of each case.
• 30 years of combined experience. Our team brings decades of combined litigation and trial experience to cases in TX, CA, and IL state courts and federal courts when appropriate.
• Trial ready. Preparing a claim like it will be tried often strengthens negotiations. We develop liability proof, medical causation, and damages models early so we are prepared if talks with AAA stall.
• Full-service injury practice. We handle motor vehicle collisions, commercial trucking crashes, rideshare accidents, pedestrian and bicycle injuries, premises injuries, and related insurance coverage disputes.

We are committed to innovation and client access. Our proprietary platform integrates with medical providers and uses secure workflows to curate the strongest possible claim package for AAA or any other insurer. While technology helps us move quickly, your case strategy is always attorney led and tailored to your goals. If you want to talk through your options after a crash in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, El Paso, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, Orange County, Chicago, Cook County, Naperville, or Joliet, we offer a free consultation to listen and help you plan next steps.

Authoritative resources cited

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2023 Traffic Fatalities Early Estimates
• Texas Insurance Code ch. 542, Prompt Payment of Claims
• Texas Insurance Code ch. 1952, UM/UIM coverage provisions
• Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, two-year limitations
• California Insurance Code § 11580.2, uninsured motorist coverage
• California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, two-year personal injury limitations
• California Code of Civil Procedure § 338, property damage limitations
• Illinois Department of Insurance, Consumer Resources
• 215 ILCS 5/143a, uninsured motorist coverage
• 215 ILCS 5/143a-2, underinsured motorist coverage
• 735 ILCS 5/13-202, two-year personal injury limitations
• 735 ILCS 5/13-205, five-year property damage limitations
• California Department of Insurance, Consumer Help and Fair Claims Practices
• Texas Department of Insurance, Consumer Help
• IRS, Settlements Taxability