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How do I file a claim for car repairs with my car insurance?
My car was recently hit in the parking lot of a shopping center. The body was damaged pretty badly, and I don’t have the cash to get it fixed. What steps do I need to take to file a claim for car repairs with my car insurance provider?
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
The claims process can be confusing, but it’s manageable when you take it one step at a time. Follow these instructions to file a claim for car repairs:
- 1. Contact your insurance company and tell them what happened. You should give them the time, location, names of people involved, and a summary of the situation—along with the other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information.
- 2. File a police report at your local station. Police reports can be used as evidence in the claims process.
- 3. Speak with the claims adjuster about your car and the damages involved. Your provider may even send the [adjuster](https://getjerry.com/advice/what-does-an-insurance-adjuster-do-by-liliana-pina) to inspect your car before they make any value-related decisions.
- 4. Read your offer from the insurance company. It should include an estimated value of your car, the expected cost of repairs, and the amount they’ll be willing to pay.
- 5. Accept or reject the deal. If you accept it, then you’re done! If you reject it, try contacting alawyerto help you negotiate a better deal.
Car owners tend to feel at odds with their providers, but you should be as open and honest as possible with your provider to streamline the claims process.
Unfortunately, your premium may go up after filing an accident claim. But you can make sure you’re still getting the best rate for your coverage with
Jerry
. A licensed broker, the Jerry app can help you compare personalized quotes from over 50 top providers like Nationwide and Allstate. If you find a better rate, Jerry can help you switch policies and even help cancel your old one!View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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