How to File an Auto Insurance Claim

By Raphael Locsin 
 

Filing an insurance claim following an accident is not the most complicated procedure that ever was, but it is not as simple as saying "I have been in an accident. Take care of this for me, would you?" There are steps you must take to successfully file your claim and you will find them listed below. This is basic information and may vary depending on the state where the accident occurred.
Step 1:
While you are still at the accident scene, call 911. This will alert law enforcement that there has been an accident, and you need them to be there even if it was a minor event. In order to file a claim for an accident, there must first be a police report filed.
Step 2:
Get the other parties information. You want to have their name, contact information and auto insurance information. This will help make your claim filing go smoother.
Step 3:
If there were witnesses to the accident, get their information as well. When filing an auto insurance claim, you want all the information you can get. This makes the process easier.
Step 4:
Contact your insurance company right away. Having your insurance card with you is always a good idea for just such an occasion. The person you speak to will help you with the claim filing process. Even if you are not the one who caused the accident, you want to take this step. It is always recommended that you file a claim with your own insurance company since each company is out to protect the best interests of their own clients. Just because you are filing a claim when you are not at fault does not mean you are in any way accepting responsibility. You are simply covering all the necessary bases.
Step 5:
If the other party is indeed at fault, contact their auto insurance company as well. You should inform them that you have filed a claim through your own company and they will be seeking reimbursement since you are not at fault. Let them know that your company will also be seeking damages for all the things that they will not be paying for you. This includes all expenses that you are not covered for under you own policy.
Step 6:
You will likely get a call very soon after the accident from the responsible party's insurance company. Speak with your carrier to find out what you should or should not say to them. Also, if there is issue with personal injury, you should speak with your attorney before you talk to the other insurance company in order to best protect your interests. If you choose to speak with them, write down or record the conversation as they will be doing the same.
Step 7:
An adjuster will be coming to look at the damage done to your car. They will estimate what it is worth and either repair it or declare it a total loss. The insurance company will give you a check for the vehicle itself or for the estimated repairs. You do not have to agree with the adjuster's estimation or price offer. If you are unsure of how to proceed, speak with your insurance company or attorney.
Your claim has now been filed and it is up to you, the carriers and maybe an attorney how to carry on from here.

Find out how you can save by requesting a quote for cheap car insurance in California or visit the author's website at http://www.shiftins.com. You can always call (562)714-9424 to speak with an agent instantly.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raphael_Locsin

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Auto Insurance Claim Information

By Clifford J Schimek

Maintaining a policy does not prevent the likelihood of a driver incurring an accident or loss, multiple times, over the course of a lifetime. An unexpected incident involving your automobile causing physical damage or bodily injuries can be very stressful and upsetting. The information provided here will help minimize the negative impact of any loss or accident relating to your automobile.

Before an accident or loss
Preparation before an accident or loss happens will assist you during the claims process and ease stress. Pencil and paper in your vehicle to record names, addresses, tag numbers, insurance information, and facts of the accident or loss is essential. A disposable camera is very useful in documenting the scene of an accident. Have your auto insurance policy identification card available. Know what coverage your auto insurance policy affords and what actions are required of you after an accident or loss.

After an accident or loss
Remain calm. Panic or anger after an accident or loss will be unhelpful. In a serious accident with injuries immediate life saving first aid and dispatch of police and ambulance is paramount. For all accidents involving other vehicles, exchange of insurance information is critical. Names and phone numbers of witnesses for any type of loss may assist your company in the settlement of a claim. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.

The claims process
Complete the required proof-of-loss forms from your insurance company. Your company will notify you within the state prescribed amount of time, in writing, if they intend to deny or investigate a claim. Once settlement to repair or replace the vehicle is established, the insurance company must pay within your state specific allotted time. It is the sole decision of your auto insurance company to settle or defend any lawsuit brought about by property damage or bodily injury you cause in a motor vehicle accident.

Settling your claim
Before starting repairs, confirm coverage with your company. The car insurance policyholder has the right to utilize any mechanic or automobile body repair shop. Most auto insurance companies maintain a network of pre-approved facilities. Using one of these facilities may help expedite repairs since a relationship exists between the repair shop and the insurance company. Insurance companies will typically guarantee repairs made when an in network repair shop is used.

Company's right to reimbursement (subrogation)
If you are in an accident and the other driver is deemed to be at fault your insurance company has the right to recover the amount of damages it paid from the at fault party. Any deductible you paid is recoverable and payable to you. It is the sole decision of your company to seek reimbursement from the individual at fault or their insurance company.

A financial, material or any other type of loss involving your vehicle is the primary reason for maintaining your auto insurance policy. Understanding basic claim information promotes policyholder satisfaction after an accident or loss.

Author, Clifford J Schimek is President of Auto Plus Insurance, a family owned and operated Florida auto insurance agency. Visit here for auto insurance claims questions and answers or call 1-877-WIZ-AUTO.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Clifford_J_Schimek

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