After a car accident, no one looks forward to filing an insurance claim. It can seem like an overwhelming task, with many details to sort out. But as long as you know how to file an insurance claim, if and when you ever have an accident, you’ll be glad you understand the process.
Get information
When you are involved in a crash with another car, first check to see if anyone is injured. If so, call 911. And if the damage seems extensive, call the police.
If your vehicles are drivable, move them off the road. Then ask the other driver or for information. The other driver should have a proof of insurance card with a policy number and insurance company phone number. Be sure to write both of those numbers down. You also need to make sure that you provide the other person with all of your information.
File right away
In some cases you may be required to fill out a police accident report; you should always do that right away. If you are unsure if you need to, then contact your insurance company. After you
The process
The process is different with every insurance company, but for the most part they follow the same pattern.
Step 1: If the other party’s insurance company was at fault, that company may send out an adjuster to assess the damage – or, request that you take your vehicle to a mechanic to have the damage assessed. After assessing the cost of repairs, your insurance company will also make an assessment. If the accident is determined to be your fault, expect your rates to increase.
Step 2: After an adjuster has taken a look at your car, you should receive a check in the amount that you have agreed upon. In some cases, you may not receive a check, but instead be told where to take your car to have it fixed because some insurance companies have their own repair shops.
Step 3: If you aren’t happy with the way things turned out or if the other insurance company isn’t cooperating with you, then you need to let your insurance company know, so your agent can look into the matter.
It is important to understand how to file a claim, because you never know when you may need that knowledge. If you are unclear on how to file, don’t hesitate to ask your insurance provider. You can always call and check on your policy and ask your agent about protocol for filing a claim.