STEP 1 — CLAIM ANALYSIS 3 Most Important Facts: 1. Liability is clear — other driver rear-ended a stationary vehicle at a red light. No comparative negligence argument available to insurer. 2. All damages documented — vehicle repair, medical, and rental costs supported by professional estimates and receipts. 3. Police report and witnesses exist — official documentation and independent witnesses eliminate any dispute about fault. STEP 2 — FORMAL CLAIM LETTER [Your Full Name] | [Address] | [Phone] | [Email] Policy Number: [YOUR POLICY NUMBER] Claims Department, State Farm Insurance Re: Formal Claim for Damages — Vehicle Collision — March 15 2026 Dear Claims Adjuster, I am writing to formally submit my claim for damages from a motor vehicle collision on March 15 2026 at 2:00 PM on Highway 101. My vehicle was stationary at a red light when struck from behind by your insured. The collision was caused entirely by the negligence of your insured who failed to stop in time. A police report was filed and two independent witnesses confirmed the circumstances. DAMAGES CLAIMED — Total: $8,500 → Vehicle repair: $6,200 (certified mechanic estimate attached) → Medical expenses: $1,800 (ER records attached) → Rental vehicle: $500 (receipts attached) I request full settlement of $8,500 within 30 days of this letter. Yours sincerely, [Your Name] Enclosures: Police report, witness details, repair estimate, medical records, rental receipts, damage photos STEP 3 — KEY EVIDENCE 1. Police report with officer name and badge number 2. Certified repair estimate from licensed mechanic 3. ER medical records and receipts 4. Rental car receipts covering repair period 5. Dated photos of vehicle damage taken at scene STEP 4 — FOLLOW UP STRATEGY Step 1 — No response in 30 days: Send follow-up via certified mail, state you will file Department of Insurance complaint within 14 days. Step 2 — Underpaid: Respond in writing disputing the amount with counter-offer and supporting documentation. Step 3 — Denied: File complaint with state Department of Insurance and consult a personal injury attorney. STEP 5 — MISTAKES TO AVOID 1. Accepting first settlement offer — Full itemised amount established upfront. ✅ Avoided 2. Giving recorded statement before written claim — Facts established in writing first. ✅ Avoided 3. Missing documentation — Every piece of evidence referenced by name. ✅ Avoided