The usual practice in the claims process is first you file a claim with your insurer. The insurance company assigns your case to an insurance adjuster and he comes and assesses the damages of your vehicle and makes an estimate the potential cost of repair. Then the insurance company makes out a check for the repair reimbursement amount and sends it to you.
When your vehicle is involved in an accident, stolen or damaged by vandalism or fire etc. the basic steps to file an auto insurance claim are given below.
- Look out for any injuries and if anyone needs emergency medical care. It is better to refer the injured to a hospital as even if the injuries seem minor to ensure you are on the safe side.
- Inform the police about the accident with every detail. Get a copy of the police report to use it to support your insurance claim.
- Exchange as much information as possible with the other involved in the accident such as the name and address of the other driver, contact information, license plate number and insurance information with the insurers’ phone number.
- Get the names and phone numbers of witnesses.
- Call your auto insurance agent or the local representative of your insurer. File the paperwork for your claim as soon as possible. Find out from your agent what are the supporting documents to be submitted in support of your claim such as the proof of claim form and a copy of the police report and bills for medical and repairs incurred as a result of the accident.
- Know from your agent the time limit for filing your claim and to submit the additional information. Also find out if your policy includes renting a car till your car returns from the repair shop.
- Fill out the claim form for requesting payments according to the terms contained in your auto insurance policy. You can contact the claims service of your auto insurer to file your claim any time round the clock. Always keep a copy of the claim papers with you.
- When the other driver is at fault you can use the other driver’s insurance company to pay for the damages and you need to file a claim with your company to you need not pay any deductible in this case.
- When you get a call from the other driver’s insurance company which is a possibility, you should be well prepared to answer their questions and should also note down the name of the person who spoke to you. So keep this information written down and ready. You should be very precise and truthful as they will record your exact words.
- On receipt of your claim the insurance company approves it and sends a claims adjuster to assess the vehicle damage and to estimate the cost of repairs and replacement. The adjuster will recommend to the insurance company the exact amount of compensation or if the claim should be rejected totally.
- Many insurance companies have tie ups with the repair shops to repair damages due to accidents. They may estimate the cost of repairs and the insurance company will pay them directly. The repair shop will also arrange for a rental car if you need one.
- You can seek dispute resolution if you are not satisfied with the settlement amount. The insurance companies pay you immediately the amount they established. When the dispute is resolved in your favor you will get the rest of the settlement. If the resolution is not in your favor you can file a lawsuit against the other driver.
Getting injured and having your car damaged in an accident can happen anytime even if you are a careful and responsible driver. You should overcome the stressful moments immediately following the accidents and remain cool. Always be prepared for such an eventuality. Calling for an ambulance and the police is the top most priority if the accident is too severe. Keep a notepad and pencil to note down the necessary information on the accident. Have your insurance ID card with you and know the details of your coverage and what you should do immediately if you are involved in an accident. By meticulously following the above steps you can ensure the success of your auto insurance claim.