Filing an auto insurance claim is not something people do every day. Because of that, there are some things you may not know that you need to have or do. Here are some practical facts about filing an auto insurance claim.
First, be sure to report the accident/incident to the police. Some insurance companies require this before settling a claim. Getting the police to the accident scene may also be a safety factor for you. If the other person or people involved in the accident become angry, having the police there can keep everything much more calm.
Next, when filing an auto insurance claim you’ll need all the pertinent information about your policy and any insurance the other person may have. For you, this will include your full name, the policy number of your insurance, the start and end dates of your policy, date and time of the accident, names and addresses of all witnesses, driver’s license and license numbers of all involved parties.
Be sure to call your insurance company right away. This will give you a head start on filing an auto insurance claim. Your agent can help you negotiate the steps needed to get your claim underway.
After this, a claims adjuster will be assigned to your claim. You’ll have conversations with this adjustor either in person or over the phone. He or she can help you get your car to a garage to be repaired and may want to inspect the damage him or herself. Always be sure to give the adjuster all the information needed. This will make the process of filing an auto insurance claim much smoother.
Keep in mind you may want to file a diminished value claim if your car can be repaired. Your adjuster can help you with this. It may be possible for you to get additional compensation in some states.
If your car is a total loss, talk to your adjuster about how long the process may take to get a settlement. Knowing the time involved will make filing an auto insurance claim easier to handle.
If your car can be repaired, remember your insurance company may have to approve the repairs in order for you to get paid. Don’t approve or work something out on your own without consulting your insurance company. You have given them control of the situation as part of the insurance agreement. You can’t make commitments on their behalf.
This information about filing an auto insurance claim has been brought to you by Corriveau Insurance Agency. We’re an independent insurance agency in Nashua, NH. We’re a family owned business since 1912. Call us for a review of your insurance needs. Call 603-883-5528 today!
