Setting up an auto claim is relatively easy. You call your insurance company and explain that you were in an accident. They will want to know details such as the date, time, and place of the accident and whether there are any injuries.
If there is no dispute as to who is at fault for the accident, your claim can normally be taken care of with one phone call. Most companies have the ability to set you up with a rental car and an auto-damage repair appointment at the same time. Once your car is repaired, you pay your deductible to the shop and you are on your way.
If the facts of the accident are in dispute, the case will be turned over to a higher-level insurance adjuster who will conduct an investigation. This type of claim typically needs more time to be resolved.