One thing is for sure, none of us want to be involved in a car crash/#accident. But what do you do in a car crash to make your insurance #claims process faster and easier? Here are some easy tips to make that happen!
(1) First Step Document Everything Involved:
After you are involved in a car accident and making sure everyone is safe, it is time to document everything that just happened. In a crash, the evidence is king. Make sure all necessary contact and insurance information is exchanged. Taking photos is highly recommended!
Drivers full name
Driver's license (making sure it is currently active)
a working contact number and or email
Complete insurance information (insurance company name, policy number, insurance company phone number, insurance agent name, and agent phone number)
Vehicles involved year, make, model, and license plate.
Clearly check the location, time, and weather condition
Check for any witnesses
Contact police for a crash report
Remember never to admit guilt to the opposing party at the time of the accident. If you or someone were injured in the accident. Make sure to gather all medical bills and give the medical contact information to the adjuster. Always let the adjuster figure out the claims process for you.
Pro Tip:
If your car is badly damaged and needs to be towed away, make sure to use your insurance's towing service (if on your policy) rather than let the police tow it. The police will tow it to a tow yard and create another hurtle you, and/or your insurance company, thus delaying your claims process. If you do not have towing contact your own tow truck or ask the police if they can tow it to your home.
(2) Second Step Submitting The Information:
Once all the information is gathered contact your agent or contact your insurance company directly to submit a claim. Be as detailed and truthful as you can when describing the accident. Make sure all the evidence and information gathered gets submitted immediately to the adjuster via email or text if your company offers it.
If you have an agent they can also submit the information for you. But make sure to follow up with the agent if they submitted the information. Once it is all submitted let the claims adjuster work their magic and handle the claim. But remember to follow up with them as you see fit.
Pro Tip:
Reminder If you caused the damage or are involved in a hit and run incident, your car will only get repaired if you have Collision Coverage on your policy. To find out more about Collision Coverage click HERE! If you are hit by someone else with active insurance, and they are found at fault their insurance will take care of the claim.
(3) Third Step Finalizing Your Claim:
After the adjuster does all the investigation you will either get a call, letter in the mail, or email in regards to the decision of your claim.
Repairing:
If the car is going to get repaired we suggest taking it to your insurance company's recommended repair shop. With Farmers, we have various Guaranteed Repair Program repair shops in your area. These shops are well trusted by your insurance and if anything is wrong they can redo the repair. Also, these shops tend to be the quickest in repairs. In most cases, the repair will be finished within a week once work has started on it.
Total Loss:
If the car is considered a total loss, you will get paid out on the current Actual Cash Value of your car. The car's value will vary depending on your location. If the vehicle is still being financed, the bank loan will get paid first. And if there are any additional funds left over, that money will go to you. In most cases, insurance companies have a program where they can help you get into a new car for cheaper after an accident. For Farmers, this is called Farmers Car Shopping Service.
Lastly, we recommend asking for the funds via Direct Deposit. This will speed up the final step of receiving the money for the accident. After receiving payment and/or getting your auto repaired you are good to go and drive safely another day! Your insurance claim shouldn't be a hassle, and with these tips, it'll be even more of a breeze!
Conclusion
To summarize everything up quickly for you. Here is what you need to do.
Gather the best evidence from the accident and make sure to have copies of everything documented.
Make sure to never admit guilt to the other party involved.
If your car is not drivable use your insurance's towing service
Submit the information of the accident right away to your insurance company
Stay in close contact with your claims adjuster and insurance agent
If your car needs repairing it is recommended to take it to your insurance company's approved body shop for speedy service.
If it is a total loss ask for direct deposit if available or ask your insurance company if they have a program to help you purchase another similar car.
Pro Tip:
Have a question that wasn't answered for you here? Contact us HERE and we will be happy to answer any questions!
Curious about other insurance stuff? Check out our other blogs related to this topic like:
What Makes A Car Salvage Titled
Does My Insurance Go Up After An Accident
What Is My Car Worth To Insurance
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