In any automobile accident, the failure to receive fair compensation for auto repair costs magnifies the victim’s agony. Yet, understanding and following simple car insurance claim rules can help streamline the claims process and ensure that you receive the settlement you deserve on time.
While you can count on your auto insurance claims representative to smoothen the overall experience, your attentive participation in the claim settlement process can quicken things up.
What to Do Before Reporting Your Car Insurance Claim
Call the police immediately after the crash. Your health and safety are a priority here, but if you can, record as much information as possible before leaving the accident scene. Be sure to capture the insurance and contact details of any other individuals involved in the accident, including the other driver.
If there are any witnesses, write down their contact information, as you might need their testimony in case of contested liability. However, the car insurance claim process doesn’t require you to discuss the fault with the other party or their lawyer/insurer. You shouldn’t be discussing policy coverage or limits with them at this stage because they have no legal obligation to safeguard your interests.
Notify Your Car Insurance Agent
Contact your car insurance agent and report the accident claim. This step is vital even if you think you’re not the driver at-fault and intend to file a claim against the other driver or their insurer. You have to involve your insurer for a chance to receive any benefits available to you through your auto insurance policy.
Engage Your Car Insurance Claim Representative
Your insurer will assign a claim representative to help you navigate the claims process easily. The professional will ask you about the car accident and any losses/damages you incurred as a result. At this stage, you can ask them any questions about your car insurance policy and the specific protections it provides.
Getting a fair vehicle repair estimate is one of the most critical phases of the car insurance claim process. The claim representative will explain your options, which may include going to an insurer-preferred auto repair shop.
Exercise Your Policy’s Car Hire Option
Does your auto insurance policy include rental reimbursement coverage? This option may help to offset any rental car costs you incur while your damaged vehicle undergoes repair. Before exercising the option, ask your claim representative about any applicable coverage limits.
Car Insurance Claim Investigation
An insurance adjuster may have to look into your car crash. This step is necessary to determine the liable party in an accident involving multiple parties or drivers. Here, adjustment includes working out estimates for any loss or damage that your car insurance policy covers.
Vehicle Repair
You can now take your car to your preferred auto repair shop because you already know all the compensable costs under your policy. Your insurer may also recommend a specific body shop to you. Evaluate any unique benefits, such as auto repair warranties, before making a final choice.
Receive Your Car Insurance Claim Settlement
It’s vital to continue working closely with your claim representative throughout the auto repair phase. The professional will guide you through the entire filing and claim resolution process to bring you the best automobile insurance settlement possible.
With the right auto insurance company on your side, your auto claim process can become considerably smooth. For assistance with your car insurance needs, contact the experts at Pierce Insurance Group. We look forward to answering all your insurance questions and helping you get the right coverage.