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There are several steps to take when filing a claim with your auto insurance company. If involved in an accident, first, remember to exchange information with the other driver. You’ll need the other driver’s name, address, phone number, and their insurance provider and phone number. Secondly, take down the names and numbers of anyone who was in the vicinity of where the accident took place in case a witness is needed.
The next steps to take in filing a claim are to file an accident report and notify your insurer. Most people call the local police while still at the scene of the accident, and the majority of insurance companies recommend filing a police report at the time of the accident. This way, while the insurer is waiting for the claim to be worked out, the details will have been recorded.
As soon as possible after the accident, call your insurance agent or company to make them aware of the situation. Your claim will be handed off to an insurance adjuster, who will review the accident report to see which driver is at fault. If the other driver caused the accident, you can use their insurance company so you won’t have a claim on your auto insurance policy, but you can also use your own insurance company.
Do not settle with the insurance company if you are not satisfied. Consider all of the factors in a settlement, from body injuries to vehicle damages to your appraisal clause, which can be used to settle any disagreements you might have with the insurer. Overall, it is important to understand your insurance policy. Make sure you are aware of everything that is covered in your policy, and don’t be afraid to ask your agent questions if you aren’t clear on something.
Because each state has consumer protection laws, a policyholder has certain rights, and because there is a legal contract between a policyholder and the insurance company, there are obligations and rights on both ends.
There is no uniform law stating that your premium will go up if you file a claim. With most insurance companies, however, filing a collision claim will remain in your auto insurance history, which will make the premiums rise. Chargeable claims, which are considered your fault, will remain on your premium for about three years after filing the claim. Other insurance agents will tell you that your rates will not go up if the accident was one where the other driver was completely at fault. It really comes down to your insurance company.
The value of your car is standardly determined by the Kelley Blue Book or One Blue Book, which give the depreciated value of used and new vehicles. Your should be able to sit down with your insurer to find out how much your car is worth for insurance purposes.
After filing a claim, an insurance adjuster will determine the costs for repairs, and you will have to sign something agreeing with the insurer's estimate as the complete claim payment. Keep in mind that if you think that bid is too low to adequately repair your car's damage, you do have the freedom to argue that choice. Most insurance companies will require several estimates, but will choose the lowest.