How do I file a car insurance claim?
Having a vehicle damaged in an accident is painful enough. Follow these steps to make the claim process as painless as possible.
- Call your insurance agent as soon as possible, regardless of who is at fault. Find out whether you're covered for this loss. Even if the accident appears minor, it is important that you let your insurance company know about the incident.
- Ask your agent or company representative how to proceed and what forms or documents are needed to support your claim. Your insurance company will require a "proof of claim" form and, if there is one, a copy of the police report. Increasingly, companies allow you to monitor the progress of your claim on their web site.
- Supply the information your insurer requests. Fill out the claim form carefully. Keep good records. Get the names and phone numbers of everyone you speak with and copies of any bills related to the accident.
- Ask your insurance agent or company representative the following:
- Does my policy contain a time limit for filing claims and submitting bills?
- Is there a time limit for resolving claims disputes?
- If I need to submit additional information, is there a time limit?
- Is my claim different if the other party has hired personal injury attorneys regardless of fault?
- When can I expect the insurance company to contact me?
- Do I need to get repair estimates for the damage to my car?
- Will my policy pay for a rental car while my car is being repaired? If so, how much?
- Does my policy contain a time limit for filing claims and submitting bills?
- Remember, each state has its own laws governing the claims process. If you have any questions, call your agent, company representative or your state insurance department.
Source: Insurance Information Institute - www.iii.org
Looking for a local agent near you? Find a professional agent with our agent locator.
Drive safe! Drivers with no accidents or violations will pay substantially lower rates than their accident-prone counterparts!