How to File an Insurance Claim

How to File an Insurance Claim

If you’ve been in an accident, we understand that filing a claim might seem more complicated than it really needs. There are certain steps you need to follow if you want to get reimbursed for any damages to your vehicle. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be eligible for a bodily injury claim or property damage claim. Here are a few tips on what you need to get started.

Once you’ve been in a car accident, the first thing you need to do is take down the other party’s information. Make sure you have their driver’s license number and insurance company name and policy number. With smartphones and other devices, it’s easy to take pictures of both their driver’s license and insurance card so you have the accurate numbers and information you need. Also remember to take pictures of both vehicles and note the damages to either property.

When to File an Insurance Claim

●     If your car has been stolen

●     If your car was vandalized

●     If your car was damaged and wasn’t in an accident

●     If you were involved in a car accident

What Information You’ll Need

You should always have your insurance card with you or in your vehicle. There should be a telephone number where you can call them to file a claim. The information they’ll request from you will be:

●     Your full name

●     Your policy number

●     The date and time of your accident

●     The other driver’s information, including his or her full name, address, phone number, and insurance information and policy number

●     The names and information of any other passengers or witnesses involved in the accident

●     The driver’s licenses and plate numbers for all drivers involved

Your insurance company will also take down a statement from you that describes the accident. You’ll need to give all the details you remember from the incident, including the time, traffic conditions, location, weather, and any other details that might have affected the accident.

Immediately after an accident, it is always best to take pictures of both your vehicle and the other vehicle involved. Take as many pictures as you can from all angles of both vehicles, especially where the damage is most evident. When filing an insurance claim, make sure to send these pictures to the representative.

After you talk to your claims representative, your insurance claim will be assigned a case number and a professional, usually an adjuster, who will be your main contact for that claim. You’ll discuss damages and coverages with them, and evaluate what fixes need to be made on your vehicle. It might be better to pay for those damages yourself and get reimbursed from your insurance after your case is resolved in order to move on with your daily life.

Filing an insurance claim is not as difficult as it may often appear to be, and your insurance representatives are there to help you with whatever questions you have. Always be sure to talk to your insurance company and ask any questions. They’re there to help you protect yourself and your vehicle.