Jane Dotson
There are many reasons why you may need to call your insurance agent. One of the main reasons is to notify them of any accidents or collisions, even if they were not your fault. Reporting an accident to your insurance company ensures that you are covered if there are any significant damages or injuries, and allows you to seek immediate repairs to your vehicle. It is also important to call your insurance agent when there are big life changes, such as getting married, starting a business, or gaining a new driver in your household, as these can impact your insurance needs. Additionally, insurance agents are valuable advisors who can provide guidance and ensure you are getting the best possible price for the protection you need.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| After a car accident | To notify your insurance agent of any collision, even those caused by other drivers. |
| When you need advice | To advise you on what the best options are for you. |
| When you need help with claims | To help you get your claims settled. |
| When there are big life changes | To weigh in on how that change might affect your coverage needs. |
| When you need to understand your policy | To explain the difference between what’s legally required and what’s financially responsible to carry. |
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What You'll Learn
After a car accident
When you call your insurance agent, they will likely ask you to send a written notification of the accident via mail. They may also ask you to report the accident online or through their mobile app. Regardless of legal fault, you might need to make a claim under your own policy, so it's a good idea to notify your insurer. If you live in a no-fault state, you must first bring a claim for benefits under your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage before you can bring a claim against the other driver.
Your insurance company can investigate the accident, uncover important evidence to help prove the other driver's responsibility, and help you negotiate a favourable settlement. They can also provide you with access to immediate repairs to your vehicle rather than waiting until the dispute is settled. If the other driver doesn't have insurance, reporting the accident to your own insurance company can help ensure that you are not left covering all the expenses yourself.
Keep in mind that what you say to your insurance company after an accident can greatly influence the outcome of your claim. They will be looking for ways to minimise their payouts, so it's important to approach these conversations carefully and with forethought. You are not required to speak to the other driver's insurance company, and you can refer them to your own insurance company instead.
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When you experience big life changes
Life is full of surprises, and sometimes these surprises can impact your insurance needs. When you experience significant life changes, it's a good idea to call your insurance agent to ensure you have the right coverage. Here are some scenarios where giving your insurance agent a call can help you stay protected:
You're getting married
Congratulations! As you plan your future together, it's important to consider how your marriage will impact your insurance. Combining households may mean changes to your home or auto insurance policies. Your agent can help you navigate these changes and ensure you and your partner are adequately covered.
You're starting a family
Whether you're welcoming a new baby or becoming a foster or adoptive parent, expanding your family is a significant life change. Now is the time to review your health, life, and disability insurance policies to make sure your growing family is protected. Your agent can guide you through updating your policies to reflect your new responsibilities.
You're buying a new home
Purchasing a home is a major investment, and you'll want to protect it with the right insurance coverage. Your insurance agent can help you understand the different types of homeowners insurance policies and ensure you have the coverage you need. They can also advise you on any additional coverage you may need, such as flood or earthquake insurance.
You're starting a home-based business
Taking the leap into entrepreneurship is exciting, but it also comes with new risks. When you start a business from your home, you'll likely need to adjust your insurance coverage. Your agent can help you understand the limitations of your current policy and recommend any necessary changes to protect your business assets and liability.
You're retiring
Retirement is a significant life change that can impact your insurance needs. As your lifestyle and financial situation change, you may need to adjust your health, life, and property insurance policies. Your agent can help you navigate these changes and ensure you have the coverage you need to enjoy your retirement years.
Remember, your insurance agent is there to help you navigate life's twists and turns. Don't hesitate to give them a call when you experience significant life changes to ensure you have the right coverage for your new stage of life.
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If you need advice on your policy
Insurance agents are licensed to provide advice and can offer guidance on the best options for your specific circumstances. They can review your coverage periodically to ensure it remains suitable and help you understand the product you're purchasing. A good agent will take the time to explain the complexities of insurance in a way that's easy to understand, so you can make informed decisions about your policy.
It's worth noting that independent agents typically have more options available to them than captive agents, who work for just one company. Independent agents can offer a wider range of products and may have relationships with multiple carriers, allowing them to find the best protection for your needs at the most competitive price. They can also provide a smooth claims experience, acting as your advocate and helping you navigate any challenges that may arise.
When choosing an insurance agent, it's important to look for someone who truly understands your needs and has a track record of satisfied customers. While some people opt for online insurance for convenience, having a dedicated agent means you have a personal point of contact who can provide tailored advice and support throughout the life of your policy.
Remember, insurance agents are paid through commission, so there is no additional cost to you for using one. By working with an insurance agent, you can gain peace of mind, knowing that you have the right coverage in place and someone to guide you through any necessary adjustments over time.
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$9.99
To report damage to your property
If your property has been damaged, you may need to file a property damage insurance claim. This is a request for compensation from your insurance provider after an event damages your property. The exact process may vary depending on the extent of the damage, your insurance company, your location, your policy, and the type of damage.
Firstly, if the damage involves a crime (e.g. theft or vandalism), contact the police first. You'll need to file a police report and get a copy of the report along with the contact information of the officers involved. If your damage doesn't involve criminal activity, you can skip this step.
Next, contact your insurance company to ask any questions before starting the official claims process. You might want to ask about your deductible, the claims timeline, and whether the damage is covered by your policy. If you're unsure about the process, you can ask for a claims adjuster to visit your home to assess the damage before you start the claims process. You can also get professional estimates for repairing the damage to check if the adjuster's estimate is accurate.
After this, you can start the official claims process. Depending on your insurance company, you can file a claim online, by phone, or in person at a local office. You may be sent a 'proof of loss' form to complete. This is a formal statement from you to your insurer about the loss, which will help them determine the extent of their liability. The more information you can provide about your loss, the sooner your claim can be settled.
If your property is not safe for occupancy, keep receipts for all expenses related to your relocation, as these may be covered under the 'loss-of-use' portion of your policy. If your claim is accepted, your insurance company will make an offer based on your coverage and deductible. If you don't agree with the amount, you may need to negotiate or provide additional documentation. If you still feel your claim isn't being handled fairly, you can seek advice from a lawyer or insurance professional.
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If you need help with a claim
Your insurance agent will require detailed information about the incident to work on your claim. This may include the time and location of the incident, the extent of the damage, your speed at the time, weather conditions, and details about any police involvement or reports. Providing this information promptly can help your agent build a strong case and expedite the claims process.
In some cases, your insurance agent may send an examiner to assess the damage and determine whether it is more cost-effective to repair or write off your vehicle. They can also advise you on whether to accept a settlement offer from the other party's insurance company or pursue further compensation. Remember that insurance agents work for the insurance company and may not always have your best interests at heart, so consider seeking independent legal advice as well.
Additionally, keep in mind that reporting an accident is not the same as filing a claim. By reporting an accident to your insurance company, you can receive immediate repairs or compensation without facing a rate adjustment. You only risk a potential increase in premiums when you file an official claim. Therefore, it is generally advisable to report any accidents or incidents to your insurance agent, even if they are minor or not your fault. They can help you understand your options and navigate the complex world of insurance to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.
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Frequently asked questions
You don't need an insurance agent, but they can be beneficial. Agents are valuable advisors who can help you understand the different types of insurance and how life changes may affect your coverage needs. They can also help you secure the best protection at the best price.
You should call your insurance agent when there are big life changes that may impact your insurance needs, such as getting married, gaining a new driver in your household, or starting a home-based business.
Yes, you should call your insurance company after any car accident, even if it wasn't your fault. Reporting an accident does not increase your premium, but it allows you to be compensated through underinsured coverage if needed.
No, you should avoid contacting the other driver's insurance company directly. They may try to blame you for the accident or deny that your injuries resulted from the collision. Instead, notify your insurance agent, and they will deal with the other driver's insurance company.
