Your auto insurance provider should pay for any damages related to a covered accident, but filing a claim is often confusing for those who have never been through the process. Unfortunately, this uncertainty often causes mistakes that could lead to unnecessary delays or even invalidate your claim. Below are a few tips for ensuring your paperwork is processed as quickly as possible.

How to File a Successful Auto Insurance Claim

1. Notify the Police

If you’re in an accident involving another driver or your vehicle is stolen, call the authorities before leaving the scene. Even if no one has been injured, insurance companies prefer having written police reports to provide an objective analysis of the incident.

2. Report the Damage Immediately

Whether your car has been in an accident, damaged by severe weather, or stolen, notify your insurance carrier immediately, even if you aren’t quite ready to file a claim. Most policies provide a very narrow window of time in which potential claims can be reported, after which the insurer may limit the amount you receive in reimbursement.

3. Don’t Pay for Permanent Repairs

Many drivers assume that their auto insurance provider will reimburse them for any repairs, but paying out-of-pocket before the adjuster can examine the vehicle may invalidate your claim. However, if a minor problem will cause further damage if it isn’t repaired immediately, you should have it fixed to preserve the value of the vehicle. For instance, if an affected fender is rubbing against the tire, you should at least have it bent out of the way.

If you’ve been involved in an accident, having a skilled insurance agent on your side will make the entire process easier. Since 1986, the independent professionals at the Dunlap Agency have provided drivers throughout the Fairbanks, AK, area with high-quality policies from some of the industry’s top carriers. To request your auto insurance quote, visit their website or call (907) 456-5202, and follow their Facebook for regular news and updates.