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.