Automobile accidents can be stressful for many reasons. When you aren’t familiar with what to do after an accident, the experience can be even more difficult. You know a little bit about filing car insurance claims, but are there things you don’t know about?
Before being faced with a post-crash scenario, you need to learn about your rights and obligations. The process of filing car insurance claims varies between insurers and states. But basic steps are required regardless of where you live or who your insurance company may be.
If you aren’t sure how to file car insurance claims, here are some tips you should know. You want to be sure you follow the correct steps to avoid problems.
When Should You File Car Insurance Claims?
The right time to file a claim can vary depending on the cause and extent of physical damage or bodily injuries. As a general rule, however, you should get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible. Each driver involved in the accident should contact their own insurer, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
If repairs for the damage to your vehicle will cost less than the deductible on your policy, and no one else was involved, you won’t need to file a claim.
Filing Car Insurance Claims in 5 Simple Steps
Once you’ve reported the accident to your insurance company, they will move forward with the claims process. But, are there other things you need to do regarding the accident? You can better understand your responsibilities by reviewing the summary below.
1. Inform Your Insurance Company
When you contact your insurance company, they may ask for the following information:
- Who was driving
- Which of your covered vehicles was involved
- Time and location of the accident
- A brief description of the accident and the extent of damage
- Documentation of injuries by a medical professional
- Name and insurance of the other driver
- Names and information about others involved in the crash or witnesses
Be prepared to make note of the claims number provided, name of the agent you talked to, and their direct phone number. To simplify this process, many insurance companies offer apps that allow you to file a claim right on your phone or computer.
2. File a Police Report
Many insurance companies will require a police report number when you file a claim. If a police report was not conducted at the scene of your accident, you can go to the local police station to file your report. However, if no one is injured and property damage was minor, you may be able to file a claim without a police report. Check your state’s laws for more information.
3. Meet With the Insurance Adjuster
After filing a claim with the insurance company, you’ll be assigned an adjuster or claims specialist. The adjuster will contact you to obtain more information. Be sure you stick to the facts and provide photos you took at the scene. In addition, you should provide contact information for any witnesses you have.
If you intend to file a personal injury claim with the other driver’s insurance company, you may want to consult an attorney before talking with an adjuster.
4. Get an Estimate for Repairs
After gathering the information they need, the adjuster will inspect the vehicle’s damage or ask you to have a certified repair shop perform this step.
5. Accept the Payment
When the adjuster approves the final payment, you’ll be required to sign a release form as proof of payment in full.
Will Your Insurance Rate Go Up After Filing Car Insurance Claims?
Unfortunately, your insurance rate will go up after filing a claim. The premiums can increase from 3% to 32% on average for 3 to 5 years. A rate increase will depend on the following:
- the claim type and amount
- the insurance company
- your claims history
- your location
- whether you have accident forgiveness
It may seem a bit unfair, but insurance companies are within their rights to raise your rates after a claim even if you are not at fault for the accident.
Filing Car Insurance Claims Is Easy at Sandifer Insurance Agency
Car insurance is something every American must have if we want to drive our beloved automobiles. But, it doesn’t have to be confusing and difficult to buy insurance or file a claim. No matter what your insurance needs, Sandifer Insurance will help you get through each step with the least amount of hassle.
Our team knows how to make filing a car insurance claim as easy and smooth as possible. If you have any questions about your auto insurance or if you need to file a claim, we would be happy to help. You can reach us by phone, online, or by email. Your insurance needs are important to us, and we look forward to helping you.
Sources:
- iii.org/article/how-do-i-file-claim – How to File an Auto Insurance Claim
- https://wallethub.com/edu/ci/car-insurance-claims/12882 – Car Insurance Claims
- enjuris.com/ – State-by-State Laws & Requirements for Reporting a Car Accident