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How do I make an insurance claim for my car?

I’ve never been in an accident before, but I feel like it's important for me to know what to do if I were in one. After an accident, what are the steps I’d have to take in order to file a claim for my car?

avatar
Chloe Jenkins · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“You’re absolutely right—it’s very important that every driver knows how to make an insurance claim for their car should the unthinkable happen. If you need to make a claim, the first thing to do is check in with your insurance company. This can be done over the phone or on the company’s website or mobile app.
You’ll need to report that you’ve been in an accident to begin your claim. To do so, you will need:
  • Names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information for anyone involved in the accident
  • Location, time of day, and weather conditions
  • Photos of vehicle damage
  • Names and badge numbers of officers that responded to the incident
  • A copy of the accident report
To avoid
mistakes
, you’ll want to be aware of any deadlines that your company may have for
filing claims
, resolving claim disputes, or even submitting additional information. These deadlines may not always be in plain sight, so seek them out.
Be sure to fill out your claim forms as
and as
as possible, and keep thorough and organized records of anything related to your claim.
If you are unsatisfied with your insurance company or your policy just doesn’t seem to work for you, try
Jerry
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