If you find yourself in a car accident that was not your fault, one of the most important steps is to file an auto insurance claim. Here, review tips for filing the claim correctly to avoid car repair delays. And while every insurance carrier follows marginally different filing guidelines, the basic process remains the same.

5 Steps in the Auto Insurance Filing Process

1. Obtain Details About the Accident

If you are able, photograph the scene of the accident with your phone, including pictures of the damage to your car and videos of witness statements. Note the time, date, weather conditions, and location of the accident, and write down or photograph the badge numbers of the police officers at the scene.

2. Get a Copy of the Police Report

Discuss the accident with the officers and ask where their precinct is located to obtain a copy of the police report. This provides proof of the incident along with photos and videos to strengthen your claim, as it shows the collision was not your fault.

Use the information collected by the police to file an accident report with your municipality or county, so there are additional records of the incident your carrier can refer to.

3. Call Your Provider ASAP

Contact your insurance agency as soon as you can--on the day of the accident, assuming you have not sustained serious injuries. Provide the carrier with detailed information about the collision and ask questions about your auto insurance policy if you need to.

For example, say your deductible, or how much you pay out of pocket on auto insurance claims, is $250, and your car repair total is $800. The carrier subtracts the deductible from the repair cost and pays the remaining $550.

4. Review & Re-Review Insurance Forms

Fill out and submit the “proof of claim” form from your insurance company along with other requested documents, such as the police report. Proofread the forms carefully to avoid confusion and claim denials that require starting the process again and delaying the work needed on your vehicle.

5. Repair or Replace Your Car

Keep in mind the insurance adjuster will inspect your car one to three days after you file. The individual also looks into your personal injury claim, if applicable, and may wish to speak with witnesses.

And while your insurance company will suggest auto repair centers they work with to keep their costs down, you have the liberty to select the shop you want. If you need to replace your car, your carrier will issue a check for the vehicle’s current value after subtracting your deductible. 

 

If you would like to switch auto insurance carriers or purchase your first policy, contact Charles Adams Insurance Agency in Ashland, KY. Serving the Tri-State area since 1960, this company is known for accessible and friendly agents with more than 20 years of industry experience. Call (606) 325-9709 today with questions or learn more about auto insurance services online. Get additional insurance tips on Facebook.