If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you must be well aware of the stress and confusion that follows. While this period might be stressful, you can rest assured that filing a car insurance claim will help you recover from the damage. The right insurance partner can offer you sound advice that can ease the recovery process.
Having some knowledge about car insurance claim processes can ensure you have a comfortable experience working with your claims professional. If you ever get involved in an auto accident, here is what you need to know:
Before Filing a Car Insurance Claim
After you’ve been involved in an accident, your first step should be to call 911 or the police. Be sure to remain at the scene of the accident until the police or emergency services arrive. Consider taking pictures of the accident scene to serve as evidence in your claim.
If applicable, get the insurance information of the other parties involved in the accident, but try to avoid any heated debates or fault findings. If there is a police report, ensure you get a copy for the claim process. Once your car is safe, immediately report the claim to your insurance provider.
What Comes Next in the Car Insurance Claim Process?
Once you have notified your insurance provider about the accident, they will ask you for details of your loss and advise you on the car insurance claim rules. Make sure you provide your claim examiner with all the necessary information regarding the accident so that they can adjust your claim accordingly.
Your claims examiner will be your go-to person regarding the claims process. They’ll work closely with you to obtain your vehicle’s repair estimates, assess the damage, and organize a rental car for the period your vehicle is immobilized. It’s critical to select a reliable insurance partner to make the car insurance claim process as smooth as possible.
Seek Some Clarifications About Your Car Insurance Claim
Do you know exactly what your auto insurance policy covers? In case you are uncertain of the extent of coverage, make sure to ask your insurance provider the following questions:
● What are the deductibles? Your deductible is the amount you will need to pay out of pocket for your vehicle’s repairs while the insurance covers the rest.
● Does the policy include rental reimbursement coverage? This kind of coverage “keeps you on the road” while your car is being repaired. The insurance company may opt to provide you with a vehicle or compensate you if you rent out a car for a certain period.
● What are the time limits for submitting a claim? One of the general car insurance claim rules is that a claim can be denied once it is presented outside the time limits specified in your insurance policy agreement; so, ensure you are aware of the time limits.
Final Aspects of the Car Insurance Claim
There are instances when an investigation may be carried out after an accident to determine liability, repair estimates, and more. While it might take some time, you should be patient as this is part of car insurance claim procedures, especially when multiple vehicles are involved.
Once the investigation is complete, you can take your vehicle for repairs to a repair shop of your choosing or one recommended by your claims examiner/adjuster. Your claims adjuster will keep you informed about the repair process.
For a painless and hassle-free car insurance claim, you should consider selecting a reputable and reliable insurance partner. If you’re looking for quality car insurance that you can count on, trust the experts at Premier Risk, LLC. We have years of experience matching the right auto policy to the motorist, tailoring it to your needs, budget, and vehicle. Contact us today on Long Island, New York to get started!
