Auto Insurance Claims
Because most drivers don't make a habit of wrecking their vehicles, the car insurance claim process is usually a novel one. The average policyholder does not even know where to begin when the time comes to file an accident claim, let alone how to see the process through to completion.
If you're in that boat, this section will guide you through every aspect of an auto insurance claim. The following articles will explain how to get ready to file a claim, how to actually file it, and how to follow up if necessary once the claim is settled.
Pre-Claim Checklist
Before you file your claim, you should have certain information and paperwork ready for your insurer. Follow our pre-claim checklist to prepare.
Time Until an Accident
Affects Your Rates
Do you know when your insurance rates may increase after you are involved in a car accident? Find out here.
5 Things to Avoid When Filing a Claim
Not calling the police and failing to exchange information with the other parties involved in an accident are just a few of the things you should avoid when making a claim. Here are some more.
How to File a Car Insurance Claim
Are you clueless about how to even initiate an accident claim? This step-by-step article on how to file an auto insurance claim is all you will need to get started.
How the Value of Your Car Is Determined
After a loss, an insurance adjuster will have to compute the actual cash value of your vehicle. Read on to find out how insurers determine this figure and what it means.
How Claims Impact Your Auto Insurance Rates
When you file a car insurance claim, do your rates stay the same, automatically go up, or increase at a later date? Find the answers in this post.
Why It's a Bad Idea
to Lie on Your Claim
Lying on a car insurance claim is considered insurance fraud, which is a serious offense at the state and federal levels. Find out what could happen if you twist the truth on a claim.
When Is a Car Considered Totaled?
A vehicle is considered a total loss by a car insurer when it would cost more to repair than to replace. Learn why insurers total cars and what you can do about it here.
What to Do If You
Have Trouble Settling a Claim
If your auto insurer offers you an unsatisfactory auto insurance claim settlement or won’t settle your claim at all, you have several means of recourse, all of which are outlined here.
Know Your Car Insurance Rights
Most insurers are very good about paying out legitimate claims promptly, but knowing your rights as a policyholder will help you understand what your carrier can and can’t do in the process.