Knowing how to file an auto insurance claim will save you a ton of money.
If you ever get into an accident because of someone else, you can file an insurance claim for assistance. Insurance claims are meant to provide victims with coverage so that they can pay for medical expenses and vehicle damage.
Whenever you get into an accident, you should file an insurance claim as soon as you can. However, many people are unaware of how to do it because several steps are involved.
Read on to learn how to file an auto insurance claim in 5 steps!
1. Contact the Police
One of the first things you need to do when it comes to filing an auto insurance claim is to contact the police. This must be done as soon as the accident happens to prevent anyone from getting misinformed about what happened.
When people arrive at the scene, they’ll take a look at the damage and talk to everyone involved. They’ll also run drug tests on those involved to see if anyone was intoxicated when the accident happened. If the person at fault was intoxicated, they’ll face harsher punishments than they would if they were sober.
Explain to the police how the accident occurred so they can get a better understanding. The person at fault may also be sent to jail if someone was harmed during the accident.
2. Collect Information
After contacting the police, you’ll need to start collecting information so that you can use it later. You’ll want to collect info relating to both your insurance and the other party’s. Keeping track of the insurance info will make it easier to file the claim because you’ll need to refer back to it.
If the other party cannot provide you insurance information, you’ll need to go forward without it. However, start gathering information about the accident.
One of the best things you can do is take pictures of the damages so that you can prove you need compensation. If you need to go to the hospital, keep records of all the expenses. Providing that the claim is approved, you can get compensation for both medical expenses and damages done to your vehicle.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
When you’ve collected all of the necessary information you need, you must contact your insurance company to let them know what happened. This is an important step because you can’t file the auto insurance claim unless you contact them.
Direct auto insurance claims can be difficult to understand, but your insurance provider will advise you on what needs to be done. In many cases, you can get a rental vehicle while you’re waiting for everything to get processed. You can also get your vehicle towed if need be. All this depends on the coverages you purchased for your policy.
If you don’t contact your insurance provider, you’ll end up spending a lot more money than you otherwise would have to. The rental car and towing are two services that auto insurance providers can cover if listed on your auto insurance policy.
4. Work with Claim Specialist
Your insurance provider will arrange a claim specialist to guide you throughout the process. A claim specialist is someone that will represent you whenever you need to speak to someone about the incident. For example, your claim specialist will handle any discussions with other people involved in the accident and insurance companies.
Claim specialists also work towards settling your claim and ensuring you get compensation. While they aren’t lawyers, they work similarly. You’ll need to meet with them often to discuss the claim and get updates.
If your car needs repairs, your claim specialist may choose a specific garage for it to be worked at. Many insurance providers have preferences because some garages offer better services. They’ll also arrange a rental vehicle for you if you need to continue driving.
Whenever personal injuries happen in auto owners insurance claims, claim specialists will review the extent of the injuries. Doing this makes it easier for them to determine how much victims need to get when filing their claims.
5. Hire an Attorney to Help You
Although a claim specialist will do most of the work for you after filing the claim, sometimes you may need an attorney if you want to ensure you get compensated. Whenever you file AAA auto insurance claims or other types of claims, the other party will almost always fight back.
Many people have a hard time understanding that they can’t get compensation just by saying that someone else did it. Unless the accident was seen on cameras, a lot of evidence would need to be gathered. You’ll also need to know what to say to help you prove your point.
Hiring an attorney can save you a world of trouble because they’ll gather as much evidence as they can. They’ll also tell you what you should be saying so that you don’t risk the chance of winning your case. If the case goes to court, they’ll ensure that you understand everything that’s going on.
Now You Know How to File an Auto Insurance Claim
Filing an auto insurance claim doesn’t have to be a difficult process. After reading this article, you now know the necessary steps to take to ensure everything goes smoothly. We encourage you to contact your insurance provider today to learn more about their policies relating to accidents.
If you’ve already filed a claim and would like extra assistance, hire an attorney. Many cases end up going to court because the other party won’t admit they were at fault. It’s best to have someone that knows what they’re doing so you can win.
Contact us to learn more about our insurance services today!
