How to file an auto insurance claim

What are the steps in filing a car insurance claim?

If you’re involved in an auto accident, take these immediate steps before contacting your insurance company:

1. Stay at the accident scene.
2. Get to a safe area off the roadway. If your vehicle is drivable, move it out of traffic.
3. Get help for anyone who is injured.
4. Call the police.
5. Collect the following information:

• Names, phone numbers, insurance companies, and policy numbers of any other drivers involved.
• Photos of all involved vehicles and/or property.

Once you've assessed your damages and decided you’re going to file a claim, it's best to file as soon as possible following the accident. Take the following key steps:

1) Contact your car insurance company

Contact your insurance agent and ask them what information they’ll need for your claim. Along with the information you collected in step #5 above, you’ll likely be asked to provide the following:

• Accident location, date, and time
• Weather conditions at the time of the accident
• Police and/or accident reports
• Whether you received medical attention on-site or afterward

2) Review your car insurance policy

Your claims representative will have access to this information, but the more familiar you are with your coverages, limits, and deductibles, the better. You’ll have a good idea of which coverages will likely apply, given the accident circumstances. This can also help you start planning for any out-of-pocket costs—both for applicable deductibles and if damages seem likely exceed your coverage limits.

3) Communicate with the claim adjuster

Once you've filed all the necessary paperwork, your insurance provider may send an adjuster to investigate and review your damages. When the adjuster corroborates your account and approves your claim, your insurance company will normally send you a check to help cover your insured losses.

The more accessible you are when they contact you—for follow-up questions, repair estimates, and other relevant topics—the more efficient the process will be.

4) Have your vehicle repaired

Assuming your vehicle isn’t determined to be a total loss, you can work with your insurance provider and an approved repair shop. Your claim adjuster will perform or facilitate a vehicle repair estimate. Depending on your insurer and other factors, they will issue a check for the repairs—minus your deductible—either to you or directly to the shop.