How to Deal With Car Insurance Claims

The insurance claims process does not have to be the time consuming and frustrating process it once was.  A professional and knowledgeable insurance agent can easily guide you through.  As you move through the process, remember that the handling of your automobile claim can have an impact on future insurance premiums for years to come.

After being involved in an auto accident, it’s important to remain calm, contact the police, and notify your insurance company immediately.  A good agent will guide you so the experience can be as smooth and painless as possible. 

• Obtain a copy of the police report.  While the police report typically won’t assign fault specifically, it will be a written account of what happened.  Any eyewitnesses will typically be referenced as well.  A driver information form should also be provided by the officer at the scene.  


• Speak with an attorney.  Especially if the accident was a serious one with injuries, or if drugs or alcohol were involved, it is important to know your rights.  Ask specifically about what language and details to use when speaking with your insurance company.  It is also important to identify potential personal liability and how circumstances of the accident could affect a driving record.  Proceed with contacting your insurance agent or the other driver's insurance on the advice of your attorney.


• Contact your insurance company.  Regardless of fault, contact your insurance agent after speaking with your attorney.  Be mindful of specifically indicating fault, as this can affect future insurance premiums.  Many of the larger insurance carriers have 24 hour claims hotlines can assist you regardless of time of day the accident took place.


• Contact the insurance company of the other driver.  In instances where the other driver was clearly at fault, or upon the advice of your attorney, you should contact their insurance carrier to initiate the claims process.


• Obtain estimates for the damage.  Ask your insurance agent if there are specific auto body shops that are recommended, or advise your agent of the intended shop that you would like to use.  Ask how the shop handles insurance claims.


• Complete the repairs process.  Once the claims check has arrived, bring your car to the auto body shop.  Contact your insurance agent to advise them that repairs are complete.