Car Insurance Claims
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Car Insurance Claims

What to do in an accident

Cars crash in a minor collision at an intersection.As much as we at igottadrive.com would like to think accidents are for other people its best to be prepared for them. Knowing what information to collect in an accident and where you would take your vehicle for repairs is best answered by your insurance agent prior to driving any amount. Severity of accidents can range from backing into a light pole to running into another automobile. Keeping your whit’s about you and remaining calm can be the best remedy for an accident.

The following are a few important things to remember to do immediately following an accident:

  • Check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
  • Do not argue or engage with hostile people involved in the accident.
  • If you can, move your automobile out of the traffic lanes for safety.
  • Call the local authorities or 911 if needed.
  • If there is more than one vehicle involved collect some basic information from them or witnesses.
    • Name, address and contact information
    • Insurance information
    • Witness information
    • License plate number
  • Take a few photos if you can and send them to your insurance agent.
  • If there is a police report be sure to get a copy or at least get the officers information to request a copy later.
  • You will want to call your emergency contact and let them know your situation and if you need a ride.

Reporting the claim

Car crashes can become very expensive very quickly.You would think in this day with advancements like online drivers ed and autonomous vehicles our cars would be able to file the claim for us, unfortunately that’s not the case. The only way the insurance company knows you have had an accident is if you tell them. You can do this in a few different ways, over the phone, online, or even on your smart phone with an insurance app. Regardless the way you file a claim you will need to provide information on the accident and who was involved. Your information and the information about the car you where driving and if you were a passenger then the drivers information as well. The accident description of what happened, time, location, who else was involved, and the amount of damage was caused. Including photos and any witness’s information can be helpful as well.

Once your claim has been submitted you will be contacted by your insurance claim specialists to walk you through the claims process to get your vehicle repaired and back on the road as quickly as possible. Keep in mind it may take a few days to get your cars damages estimated and another few days to get started on the repairs. Even with today’s technology and latest repair applications it still takes time for the repairs to be completed. You may find having rental car coverage can come in handy for the smallest of repairs. The repair claim is typically paid directly to the vehicle repair company. Leased or financed vehicles may have special requirements stated by the loan provider on restoration or repair parts and techniques to help maintain higher value upon completion. Your insurance representative can answer all of your questions on what to expect and how to be prepared. Your best insurance of course if to be a safer driver.