How To Start An Auto Insurance Claim

If you are involved in an accident, it can frighten you to the point that you cannot remain very calm. But, once you are in a calmer state and you know that you are ok and not injured, there are a few important steps to take before filing your insurance claims.

If there are damages or if someone is injured in an accident you are involved in, you will be going against the law if you leave the scene of that accident before the authorities say you can. It doesn’t happen all the time, but sometimes people will flee the scene. Once you have calmed down, be sure to notice the other vehicle’s license plate. If you see that it is safe to do it, secure the area, turn off the ignition and turn on the hazard warnings to alert the oncoming traffic of the situation.

If there are injuries or the collision is in a very precarious situation, call 911 or any other emergency response number that is used in that locality. If someone who is involved in an accident runs away from the scene of it, you also should call the emergency response number. Do not rush to accept fault for the accident; remain calm when it is quite obvious who is at fault in the collision.

You should begin by exchanging driver information; addresses, names, phone numbers-including cellular, vehicle registration and insurance details. Then, make notes detailing the accident; make a map showing the location of nearby streets by name, the position of the vehicles, show the direction each vehicle was traveling, the point of impact, skid marks, and detail all damages. When you write down the details of the accident, put in the make, model, and color of each vehicle involved in the collision.

If you have a cell phone that takes pictures or a camera, you could benefit greatly by this.

It is important to gather information from as many witnesses as possible and also get their phone numbers and vehicle registration. Note the condition of others involved in the accident, whether they are impaired or not or distracted when driving. Was anyone eating or talking on their cell phone while driving their vehicle or were road or weather conditions a contributing factor of the accident.

When you have reported the accident to the proper authorities, and have been allowed to leave the scene, make a call to your insurance agent and tell them about the accident and any damages incurred. In the event that your car is not drivable, your insurance coverage may provide a rental car.

At this time, the insurance company will make an appointment to examine the damaged auto and snap a few pictures for their files. As soon as the insurance company has made their assessment of the damages, they will tell you if the vehicle can be fixed. When the auto’s condition is repairable, then you will have to decide where the repairs can be taken care of.

When the vehicle has been taken to the auto repair shop, the deductible which is indicated on your insurance policy has to be paid by you and then the remaining balance of the bill will be paid by the auto insurance company. If the vehicle is in your possession and repairs have been made, but the deductible has not been paid, your vehicle could legally be impounded and that could be more expensive than the deductible.

Visit Peppercoin Insurance to read more great auto insurance articles including ‘Increase Your Deductables For Cheaper Insurance‘ and more.