Reporting A Car Accident To Your Insurance Company

Reporting a Car Accident to your Insurance Company While on the phone, find out the forms you’ll need in support of your claim. You’ll at lease need a “proof of claim” form, police report and bills for repair and medical costs (send copies only!). You should also have the insurance company explain the time limits for providing additional information about the accident and for disputing claims.

There’s likely a number to call to file a claim. While speaking to an agent or adjuster, confirm the details of rental car reimbursement, should you need one and you have this type of coverage.
Depending on state law, you may be able to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company if you are not at fault. Check on this as well.

Prepare for the talk

Prepare in advance for your conversation with the other driver’s auto insurer by knowing what you are going to say. (Tip: It should not vary from what you have already said.) Should there be a dispute, this call surely will take place. Be honest and precise with the information you give.

What happens next?

Once your claim has been approved, a claims adjuster reviews the police and claim reports, evaluates the car damage, and estimates repair costs. The adjuster recommends whether or not to accept the claim and if acceptance is recommended, whether to settle for the full amount or a partial amount.

If you believe the settlement is too low, you can initiate the dispute resolution process. If you’re still dissatisfied, you may consider filing a lawsuit.

Important tips:

Save copies of everything sent to both your auto insurance company and the other driver’s.
Make detailed notes about phone conversations you have with insurance agents, adjusters, medical personnel and legal staff. Record date and time of the conversation, name and title of person you spoke with, and information regarding the conversation.