How to File an Auto Insurance Claim and What to Expect
If you are a good, safe, and lucky driver, you will never experience the stress and headaches associated with filing a car insurance claim. However, accidents happen daily, and at some point, you may have the need to contact your insurance company in order to claim that insurance benefit for which you've been paying the premium for so long.
But what is the first step, and what should you expect from your insurance company? The good news is that insurance companies are ready to take your call for a claim.
What information do you need to file claim?
Before you call, there is some information you should have ready and at hand. If you are involved in an auto accident, be prepared to jot down the following information:
- Name, address, insurance company of other driver. Get the driver's name and contact information, as well as the insurance company and policy number. Also write down the make, model, and license number of their car.
- Names and contacts of witnesses. If there were witnesses to the accident, try to obtain their contact information in case their statements are needed by your insurance company.
- Cross streets. Your claim papers may ask for precise locations of the accident, and therefore, you should try to write down the street on which you were driving and all nearby cross streets.
- Leave your contact information on unattended vehicles. Should you accidentally collide with a parked vehicle, write down your name and contact information and leave it for the owner.
Making the call to your car insurance company
Making the call to your insurance company or agent should be done as soon as possible after an accident or any other comprehensive damage occurs to your vehicle. Your agent or claims representatives are ready to help you through the process and will ask you for some of the information listed above. They will immediately mail out claims paperwork for you to review and complete.
They will also probably contact a claims adjuster, who will inspect your vehicle and provide the insurance company with photos and a best guess estimate for repairs. Though the company and inspector may recommend a body shop for repairs, remember that you have the right to choose your own preferred auto repair shop.
If your auto was towed to a repair shop, they will also inspect the automobile and provide your insurance company with an estimate. When estimates are approved by the insurance company and by you, and after you pay your deductible amount, then most of the financial transactions will be conveniently billed between the auto repair shop and insurance company.
Rental car coverage
If you are eligible for a rental car reimbursement while your vehicle is in the shop, these costs may be handled financially between the rental company and your insurance. If not, you may need to pay for the rental yourself and keep receipts to get reimbursed from your insurance company.
The claim process can be long and exhausting. However, the main thing to remember is to cooperate with your insurance company during the claim process and provide all information requested. When you are prepared with all the information necessary, then your claims process will be much smoother.
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