How to File an Auto Insurance Claim
Simple Steps to Get Back on the RoadCar accidents are unpleasant experiences, and yet all too common to our ‘car culture.’ We spend so much time shuffling back and forth from work and other places, that accidents are bound to happen. As difficult as a damaged car is to deal with, dealing with insurance companies can be just as frustrating, time consuming, and demanding. The following are some techniques and ideas to help you get through the process easily, and as painlessly as possible. Report the AccidentAlthough you may not wish to report the accident to your insurance company for fear of an increase in premiums, you should always report it. Many states have a ‘no-fault’ law, which means that each driver’s company pays for his damages, if neither party was at fault. Most states also have a law that protects clients from an increase in premiums, if they did not cause the accident. Start a Comprehensive FileYou should immediately begin a file with all the relevant information to your accident. In this file, you should keep police reports, policy information, copies of all forms, and addresses and phone numbers of everyone involved (including witnesses). You should also start a call log, listing every conversation you have; include times, names, and dates. Keep all receipts from doctor’s visits, rental cars, hospital stays, repair bills, and lost wages in this file as well. Keep track of Your Claim’s ProgressAsk your insurance agent to give you a timeline as to when you can expect certain events to take place. Some insurance companies may try to stonewall you, or slow down your process. If this occurs, your recourse is to call the National Insurance Consumer Helpline at 800-942-4242 and ask for guidance. Periodic calls to your agent can help make sure that they are working on your claim, and also put pressure on them to get it done quickly. You can also put in a call to the State Insurance Department, which oversees the insurance companies. This is a slow process, but usually works, if you are willing to spend the time. Other OptionsIf you haven’t gotten anywhere with the insurance companies, and it looks like you have no other choice, you have the option to take them to small claims court. This is not as difficult or painful as it sounds. Basically, this is just a form of arbitration, where the only people present are you, the other person involved in the accident, and the judge. If you do find yourself in an accident, it is not the end of the world. It is an annoying situation to find one’s self in, but by following these simple guidelines, you can greatly speed up the process, and have your car, and your life back on track in no time.
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