How to File Auto Insurance Claims

Insurance claims may seem complicated but documenting the damage caused to you and your vehicle can make the difference between a winning and a losing claim.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. The worst part about accidents is that they happen when you least expect them. Not only do you have to deal with the physical injuries and mental trauma but also you have to make sense of the complicated process of filing an insurance claim.

2. Cases of fraudulent insurance claims are rising. To cut down on such claims, insurance companies are adopting new practices such as using lie detectors while claimants give their statements. Moreover, they will try their best to reduce the compensation amount they owe their customers by rejecting claims on flimsy grounds such as not producing the necessary documents. While filing a claim, the golden rule is to provide detailed information to insurers. Document all information related to the accident.

3. Being prepared isn't just a scout's motto. It can help a lot while filing insurance claims. Keep a first-aid box in your car at all times. Always keep a pen and notebook in your vehicle just in case you need to jot down details of an accident such as:

Tips & Warnings

• Contact information of all the people involved in the accident including witnesses, if any
• Details of the vehicles involved such as car make, registration number, etc.
• Time and date of the accident
• Damages to both vehicles (for example, broken windows)
• Details of the accident or how it happened. Draw a diagram to show what happened.
• Factors that could possibly influence the accident (street lighting, weather, visibility)
• Insurance company and policy number
• Mention any other details that are relevant to the accident and may affect your claim. Use a camera to take photos of the accident site, serving as useful evidence for insurance claims.
• What do I do after an accident?
• The first thing to do is don't panic. While it will be difficult to stay calm after a traumatic experience, fight the urge to run away. Running away from the accident scene is illegal and will only weaken your insurance claim even if you were not at fault.
• Call an ambulance if someone is injured. Get a doctor to examine you and document all your injuries in a medical report. If required, see a specialist.
• Call the police. NEVER assume liability for the accident until you speak to an experienced solicitor.
• Save all your bills and letters related to the accident.
• File a claim with the help of a accident solicitor.
• Be honest at all times with the insurer. Providing incorrect information can lead to rejection of your insurance claim.

Resources

• Insurance claims