Filing Auto Insurance Claims: The Basic Steps to Take

An automobile accident can be a terrifying event for anyone, even when there are no injuries sustained. However, it is still necessary to take proper action after the collision to make filing auto insurance claims as simple as possible. Filing auto insurance claims may seem demanding at first glance, but following the correct steps can ensure success.

Be sure to carry your insurance card with you at all times for easy access. This card contains the type of coverage you have and how long it spans, your vehicle's make, model and identification number, and emergency and after hours phone numbers. Call your auto insurance agent to inform the company of the occurrence as soon as possible.

Most insurance companies request some form of documentation to support your claim. Writing down names and addresses of those involved or possible witnesses may aid when filing auto insurance claims. Noting specific details such as the weather, or visibility also may be of assistance. And of course, a copy of the police report is required, along with a proof of claim form provided by the insurance company.

Once all the information has been provided to the insurance company, and the claim form has been filled out, you can basically just sit and wait to see what develops. If there happens to be a dispute between the participants in the accident, you may receive a call from the other driver's insurance company inquiring about your version of the collision. Support your case. Document the conversation and make note of the insurance agent you spoke with.

Your case will be designated a claims adjuster, regardless of the car's condition. The car will be taken to a body shop, and the shop will evaluate damage done to the automobile. They will then send a report to the insurance company with an estimate for repairs. The insurance company will determine retail value after assessment of the report. If the repairs transcend 70 to 80 percent of the car's retail value, it is deemed totaled by the insurance company.

What You Need to Know About Auto Insurance

Let's be realistic, everyone needs to have auto insurance. Aside from the fact that almost every state requires it, it is only logical for a driver to see that his vehicle is properly insured. Auto insurance offers property, liability and medical coverage. A full policy consists of six separate types of coverage. A majority of states will insist that you purchase all but a few of these kinds of coverages. Before making any major decisions about which auto insurance is right for you, it is best to educate yourself about insurance policies and terms.

The basic coverage that a driver can purchase is liability insurance. This type of auto insurance coverage pays for your legal responsibility to others for medical expenses and property damage. Most states require that every car is equipped with liability insurance. It is worth buying a bit extra than required to make sure your personal assets are secured in case of an accident.

Collision insurance pays for damage to your own car resulting from a crash with another car, object, or also the effects of turning over. This kind of auto insurance coverage even handles damage caused by potholes. This type of coverage is usually sold in two deductibles: $250 or $1,000. The higher that your deductible is, the lower your premium will be. Collision insurance is optional by most policy standards.

Comprehensive coverage is a third class offered on your auto policy, and this covers anything that could conceivably happen to your car. This type of coverage will reimburse you for loss due to theft or harm inflicted by something other than collision with a car or object. This includes acts of nature such as earthquake, windstorms, floods, and hail. It can also include vandalism, falling objects, and contact with animals such as deer.

Most auto insurance policies span for six months to one year. Before making a solid commitment to a provider, the driver should examine and compare several quotes, and see what fits their needs best.