Car Insurance - Ease Claim Filing Headaches

By Author: Marie Wakefield
Total Articles: 13
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Rather have your toenails torn out, than file a claim? Well, you are not alone, after an accident or car theft, most people do not want to suffer through a long-winded claims procedure.

The procedure for claims after a car accident is supposed to be straightforward. After you make the claim, preferably on a comprehensible form , an adjuster estimates the costs to restore your car and the insurance company writes you a check for that amount. Regrettably, the process isn't always so simple for millions of people who file claims each year.

Here are some things you can do to get claims settled as fast and as smoothly as possible:

Carry a disposable camera in your car to take photos of any accident scene. Record the location, time, weather, road conditions, etc. of the accident. Memory tends to fade, so notes taken on the spot are valuable for future questions.

Conversely you can make a rough sketch of damage to vehicles and property, and describe any apparent injuries and other factors, if you do not have a camera. Get and keep a copy of the police report for yourself as well.

Next call ...
... your insurer immediately: If you don't, the company could void your policy. Follow up in writing as well to ensure that your rights are protected under law. Reread your policy- Know what coverage you have and don't have so you know what you can claim. Request from your agent before filing details on the claims process and what information the company may need. Make sure you check deadlines as well. Some policies have time limits for filing claims, submitting bills and even resolving disputes.

If your auto is stolen, your initial response should be similar to any auto accident. First, have a police officer visit the scene and file a police report. Try to have your license plate number and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for the police. If the Registration is stolen along with the car, try to obtain a duplicate from the Transport Authorities without delay. Then notify your car insurance company right away. Auto insurance claims for stolen vehicles always take longer to process, because the police are given a reasonable amount of time to locate the stolen car. Stay in touch with the police regarding the development of the investigation. If the car is not traced after a realistic period, get a report from the police to that effect. If the vehicle is traced, tell the company immediately.

Then be sure to track your claim: acquire your claim number and contact the insurance company or claims adjuster for updates. Some car insurers have the ability to let you track your claim's condition online. Sometimes writing a letter to the adjuster or a supervisor can get things moving. Be persistent, but not unbearable.

Double check your policy for rental coverage to have transport while waiting. If the mishap wasn't your fault, you can get a rental auto while your car is being repaired, paid for by the other driver's insurance company. If the accident was your fault, you need to have rental reimbursement coverage. If your car was stolen and you have comprehensive insurance, your insurer will probably award you a specific amount each day for a rental.

This way when you need to claim on your car insurance, you know that everything will be dealt with quickly and smoothly.