Filing An Auto Insurance Claim: A Step-By-Step Guide

Filing an auto insurance claim can be a stressful process, but it doesn't have to be. Here are the steps you need to take to file a claim and get your car repaired. First, it is important to stay calm and call the police, especially if there are any injuries. Take photos of the accident scene and exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details. You should also get the contact information of any witnesses. Next, notify your insurance company as soon as possible, regardless of who was at fault. You can do this by calling them or using their mobile app if they have one. Find out what documents you need to support your claim, such as a police report and a proof of claim form. Understand the timing of your claim and ask about any deadlines for filing and resolving disputes. Supply the information your insurer requests, and keep thorough records of everything related to the claim. An insurance adjuster will then investigate your claim and assess the damage to your vehicle. Depending on your insurer, you may need to get an estimate for the repair cost. Finally, choose a repair shop and get your vehicle fixed. Your insurer will issue a payment to you or the repair shop, minus any deductibles.

Contact your insurance company

Contacting your insurance company is the first step in filing an auto insurance claim. It is important to do this as soon as possible, even if the accident appears minor. You can contact your insurance company by phone, using the number listed on your insurance card, or online, via the insurer's website or mobile app.

When you contact your insurance company, they will likely ask for the following details:

• The location, date, and time of the accident
• The name, address, phone number, and insurance policy number for all involved in the accident
• Photos of the damaged vehicles
• Copies of the police and/or accident reports, if applicable

It is also important to understand the terms of your insurance policy, including any time limits for filing claims and submitting bills, and your deductible. This information will help you provide the necessary information to your insurance company and ensure that you do not miss any critical deadlines.

If you have any questions or concerns about your claim, you can contact your insurance adjuster, your insurance professional, or your state insurance department for assistance.

Document the incident

Documenting the incident is a crucial step in the auto insurance claim process. Here are some detailed instructions on what to do:

Collect Information: Write down the details of the incident, including the location, time, date, and a basic description of what happened. If another driver is involved, document their name, contact information, insurance company, and policy number. Also, note the vehicle's make, model, and license plate number, as well as the names of any passengers. Get the contact information of any witnesses, as their perspective can help insurance adjusters determine fault.

Take Photos: Use your phone or camera to capture images of the damage to all vehicles involved, including their license plates. Take photos from different angles to show the extent of the damage. Additionally, photograph the surrounding area and the entire accident scene to provide context. These visual records will be valuable evidence when filing your claim.

Call the Police: If the accident involves injuries or significant property damage, call 911 to report the incident and request medical assistance if needed. Even if there are no apparent injuries, it is advisable to notify the police, as an official police report is often required to file an insurance claim. Obtain the badge number and phone number of the responding officers for future reference.

Exchange Information: Obtain and share relevant information with all drivers involved in the accident. This includes names, addresses, telephone numbers, and driver's license numbers. Also, exchange license plate numbers, vehicle identification numbers, and insurance information, including policy numbers. Ensure that the information you receive is accurate by asking to see the other drivers' licenses, vehicle registrations, and insurance documents.

Document the Scene: If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, capturing traffic controls, visual obstacles, and any other relevant details. If your vehicle has been damaged in a non-collision incident, such as vandalism or a falling tree branch, document the scene by taking pictures of the object or event that caused the damage.

Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to inform them of the incident. They will guide you through the specific requirements and next steps in the claim process. Provide them with the information you have collected, including photos, witness statements, and police reports.

Remember, it is essential to remain calm and thorough when documenting the incident. The information and evidence you gather will play a crucial role in supporting your auto insurance claim and determining fault.

File a police report

Filing an auto insurance claim can be a stressful process, but it's important to act promptly and gather as much information as possible. One of the first steps after a car accident is to contact the police and file a police report, which will be crucial when making an insurance claim. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to file a police report:

Step 1: Call the Police

If you've been in a car accident, the first thing you should do is call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. The police will dispatch officers to the scene, who will then secure the area and gather information. It is important to cooperate with the responding officers and provide them with accurate information. Remember, never admit fault or accuse others at this stage, as it is the police's job to determine fault.

Step 2: Gather Information

While at the scene, try to gather as much information as possible. Get the names and contact information of the other drivers involved, including their insurance company and policy number. Also, make a note of the vehicle's make, model, license plate number, and state. If there are any passengers or witnesses, get their contact information as well. Take photographs of the accident scene, capturing the damage to all vehicles involved and the surrounding area. These photos will be valuable evidence when filing your insurance claim.

Step 3: Obtain a Copy of the Police Report

After the police have gathered all the necessary information, they will file a police report. This report is crucial, as it contains details about the accident, including the officers' opinion on who was at fault. Make sure to ask the responding officers how and when you can obtain a copy of the report. In some states, like North Carolina, you can request a copy of the report by completing a Crash Report Request Form and paying a small fee.

Step 4: Review and Dispute if Necessary

Once you receive a copy of the police report, review it thoroughly. This report will play a significant role in the insurance claims process, so it's important to ensure its accuracy. If you spot any inaccuracies or discrepancies, contact the police department or your lawyer to have the report amended. Remember, you have the right to dispute the report and provide your perspective on the accident.

Step 5: Submit the Police Report to Your Insurance Company

When filing your auto insurance claim, submit the police report to your insurance company. This report will be reviewed by a claims adjuster, who will investigate the accident and determine the appropriate course of action. While the adjuster is not bound by the police report, it will carry significant weight in their decision-making process.

Understand your policy

Understanding your auto insurance policy is key to knowing exactly what your coverage includes. While the specific details of your policy will vary depending on the company you purchased it from, there are several standard elements that you should be aware of.

Declarations Page

The declarations page, sometimes called the "dec page" or "information page", is usually the first page of your policy documents. It contains a summary of your coverages, limits of liability, premiums, and deductibles. Here, you will find the name and address of at least one "named insured", who is the primary policyholder, as well as any additional insured drivers. It also includes the policy term, which is the length of time your policy is valid, and the effective date, which is the date the policy started. The declarations page will also outline the types of coverage you have, such as liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance, as well as any endorsements or discounts that apply to your policy.

Insurance Agreement

The insurance agreement, sometimes called the "insuring agreement", outlines exactly what you and your insurer have agreed to regarding coverage. It describes what actions the insurance company will take in exchange for the premium you are paying. It also specifies who is covered by the policy, including the named insureds, residents of the same household, and persons using the car with the insured's permission. It is important to read the definitions and exclusions that apply to each coverage to understand what you are covered for and what you are not.

Policy Form

The policy form, also known as the "coverage form" or "coverage part", contains details on endorsements, exclusions, conditions, riders, and covenants that might be present in your policy. It goes into more depth about what is covered and what is not, as well as your specific obligations. This is where you will find any perils, or causes of loss, that are explicitly covered.

Exclusions

The exclusions section lists any situations or circumstances that are not covered by your policy. Common exclusions include intentional damage, government action, using the vehicle for racing or delivery/ride-sharing purposes, and catastrophic events such as war or nuclear accidents.

Endorsements

The endorsements section outlines any optional endorsements you have added to your policy, such as rental car coverage, roadside assistance, or coverage for transportation costs if your vehicle is unable to be driven.

Cancellation Terms

The cancellation terms explain the conditions under which your policy can be canceled, either by you or by the insurance company. While you can cancel your policy at any time, the insurance company must notify you in advance of cancellation and can only cancel for certain reasons.

Contact Information

Your policy documents should also include contact information for your agent and the insurance company for claims, assistance, or other purposes.

Work with an insurance adjuster

Working with an insurance adjuster is a crucial part of the auto insurance claim process. Here are some detailed tips to help you navigate this collaboration effectively:

Understanding the Adjuster's Role:

Recognize that the adjuster works for the insurance company paying the claim. Their primary objectives are to review the incident, estimate the claim payment, and resolve the claim as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. Adjusters are not on your side, and they will try to minimize the company's financial liability.

Be Present During Inspections:

Try to be present when the adjuster inspects the damage to your vehicle or property. This ensures that they don't miss any important details, and you can provide additional context or information. It is in your best interest to make sure all relevant damage is accurately assessed.

Communication and Information Exchange:

Ask the adjuster when you can expect an offer from the insurance company. Get their contact information and the best times to reach them. Effective communication is key, so provide detailed descriptions of the incident, damage, and any losses. Share any relevant documents, photographs, or videos that support your claim.

Protect Your Interests:

Remember that adjusters work for the insurance company, so consider hiring your own independent adjuster. They will work to minimize your losses and protect your interests during the claim process. If you have trouble reaching the adjuster or encounter issues, contact the insurance company directly. You can request a different adjuster if needed.

Disagreeing with the Adjuster's Estimate:

If you disagree with the adjuster's assessment or offer, express your concerns to the insurance company and explain why you believe the estimate is inaccurate. They may adjust their offer, and if you still disagree, explore your other options. You can refer to resources or seek legal advice to understand your rights and alternatives in such situations.

Negotiation and Settlement:

Understand that adjusters have the authority to negotiate and settle claims within certain dollar limits. They will consider your claim, the provided evidence, and any counteroffers you present. If you are not satisfied with the adjuster's settlement offer, consider consulting a lawyer who can help you navigate the negotiation process and protect your rights.

Frequently asked questions