7 Steps to File a Car Insurance Claim
The process of filing a car insurance claim can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, you can make a car insurance claim smoothly and efficiently.
The first step in the process is to report the accident to your insurer. After that, you’ll need to gather information and take photos.
1. Report the Accident
Whether you need to report the accident to the police or not, it’s always good to inform your insurance company as soon as possible. This prevents your account from getting muddied later on and makes sure you have enough documentation to back up your claim.
An adjuster will probably be sent to the scene of the crash to inspect your car’s damage and determine who was at fault. They’ll also ask for more information about the accident. This is where the notes you took and any witnesses’ information come in handy.
If it’s a minor fender bender with no one hurt and the cost of the repair doesn’t exceed your collision deductible, you may be tempted to skip filing an accident report and simply notify your insurer. However, this is a risky move. It can raise your premiums.
2. Gather Information
As soon as you can, collect any information or details you may need to support your claim. This includes obtaining contact information from the other driver involved in the accident, taking photos of the damage to both cars and, if possible, getting police reports or witness statements.
Once you’ve reported the accident, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to work on your case. This person will arrange for an inspection, assess the damage to your car and address any personal injury claims you’ve made. They’ll also evaluate the evidence you’ve gathered and determine how much compensation to offer you. This process may take some time, depending on your policy and the severity of the damage. However, a thorough approach will help ensure the best results.
3. Take Photos
Taking pictures of all damage is one of the most important things you can do for your claim. Make sure to take pictures from all directions and distances, and include skid marks. Also, if any witnesses are willing to stick around, get their names and phone numbers. Their statements can be helpful in the case of any discrepancies between your recollection of what happened and the other driver’s.
If you’re asked to give a recorded statement, it’s essential that you consult with our car accident attorneys first. What you say can be used against you in court, so it’s best not to go into detail until you have a lawyer by your side. Your attorney will guide you through the process of filing a claim with your insurance company.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
Depending on your insurance company, you may be able to file a claim through an app or website. If not, call and speak to a representative to get started.
You’ll need to provide your policy information and all the evidence you’ve gathered in order to open a car insurance claim. After you file your claim, the insurance company will assign an adjuster to investigate your case. Think of an adjuster as the insurance version of Sherlock Holmes, minus the pipe and weird hat.
Be careful not to give the other driver’s insurance company any information without first consulting your own insurer. It’s also a good idea to have your own attorney on hand, as they can protect you from being taken advantage of by the other driver’s insurance company.
5. Contact the Other Party’s Insurance Company
The insurance company for the at-fault driver will often contact you to ask questions and gather additional information. Politely decline any request for a recorded statement and let them know you would prefer to speak with your own insurance company or an attorney.
Most insurance companies will do their best to provide timely assistance, ensuring that your vehicle’s repairs are covered and your expenses are paid for. They may also be able to help you access coverage options such as Uninsured Motorist coverage, which can cover your costs in the event that the at-fault driver is not insured or doesn’t call their insurance company.
If the at-fault driver’s insurance company refuses to pay your claim, it is worth appealing or considering legal advice. Keep in mind that making a car insurance claim can cause your rates to increase at renewal time, but this will vary from insurer to insurer.
6. Take Your Car to the Repair Shop
Depending on your policy and state laws, your insurance company will either send an adjuster to inspect the damage or give you a list of recommended repair shops. However, you are not required to follow their recommendations and can choose your own repair shop.
If the damage to your car is minimal and costs less than your deductible, you may not need to file a claim. In addition, some repairs may be covered under your vehicle warranty.
Make sure your repair shop has experience working on your specific vehicle model and brand. Some repair shops even have auto technicians who specialize in specific models. This is a good way to ensure the repairs will be done correctly and quickly. It also minimizes the likelihood of additional issues that might arise.
7. Ask for a Quote
The process of getting an insurance quote is important to understand before you purchase a policy. In New York, insurers analyze a wide range of factors to determine your final rates and coverage limits.
The insurer will ask for basic information about your driver’s record and vehicle. The vehicle’s make, model year and safety features will also affect your rate. They’ll also ask how many drivers are on the policy and their ages.
Good drivers with no accidents or violations pay lower premiums. The amount of your deductible — the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your car insurance provider covers damage — is also important. Car insurance policies generally include collision and comprehensive coverages, but some states only require liability insurance. Check out our FAQs for more information on how to file a car insurance claim.