HOW TO REPORT AN AUTO ACCIDENT AND FILE A CLAIM WITH THE INSURANCE COMPANY

Knowing what to do during an auto accident is an essential part of filing a claim and, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III)*, can help you expedite matters. Here are some basic steps to take at the scene of the accident:

⦁ Call the police to report the accident and any injuries. The police may send an officer or send you to the station to file a claim. Be sure to ask how you can get a copy of the report (your insurer will probably need it).

⦁ Exchange information and take notes. Share insurance, contact, and vehicle information* with other drivers. Take photos, write down the details of the accident and the names and phone numbers of any witnesses. (Your notes can be essential when the other person is at fault, says Consumer Reports*).

⦁ Protect your car from further damage. If possible, pull your vehicle off the road or set up emergency lights to alert other drivers to your position, recommends III.

⦁ Call your insurance agent as soon as you can—no matter who is at fault. Even someone who doesn't appear to be hurt can sue you, notes the III. An oversight like this can put your insurer at a disadvantage. Your agent will ask you a few questions, explain what your policy covers and what deductible you'll have to pay. Then, you'll usually have to fill out a claim form.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER FILING A CLAIM

The process begins when you report the accident to your insurance agent. Many companies (such as Allstate) have a website where you can monitor the status of your claim, but this is the way it generally works:

⦁ Call your insurer. It's essential to notify your insurer right away so they can initiate a claim on your behalf and begin investigating the accident and damages as soon as possible.

⦁ Get a price estimate. You will need to get a price estimate to repair your vehicle. The insurer may direct you to contact one of its local offices, a specific repair shop, or send an insurance adjuster to look at your car.

⦁ Choose a repair center. If you don't already have a shop in mind, you can ask your insurer to recommend one. But remember that the decision on which shop to use is ultimately up to the insured person.

⦁ Pay your deductible. You'll probably have to pay your policy deductible before your insurer pays your repair costs. But if the other driver was responsible for the accident, your insurer may contact them to recover your deductible* (state laws vary on how this is done).

An collision is a serious business. And yes, it can temporarily take your mind off the thrill of owning a new car. But adequately filing a claim and getting the right help can get you back behind the wheel quickly, enjoying your car like it's brand new..