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How to file an insurance claim when someone hits your car?

I got into a car accident three hours ago, and I exchanged information with the other party before leaving. How do I start the process of filing an insurance claim?

avatar
Carlos Kirby · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Sorry to hear about your accident. To file a claim, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Regardless of fault, it’s important to call your insurer from the scene of the accident. Inform the
car insurance company
that you’ll be filing a third party claim with the other driver’s insurer. You can typically file these claims online or over the phone.
It is important to keep thorough and detailed records of your auto accident. Supplying your insurer with the most detailed information about your accident is essential so they can quickly process your claim. This includes the other driver’s name, insurance information, and car information. You’ll also want to have photographic evidence of the damage.
Their insurance should assess the accident and cover any damage to your vehicle. This could take time, however, as it’s likely their provider will want to investigate your claim. Because of this, it’s a good idea to give all of the information to your insurance company, as well, so they can advocate for you.
If your claim is denied, you may have to file with your own insurance company, which could cause your rates to rise. To find the best rates on car insurance after an accident, shop for quotes with
Jerry
.
After a quick sign-up, Jerry will provide you quotes from up to 50 providers in minutes. Choose a policy, and Jerry will take care of all of the paperwork and changeovers. The best part? The average Jerry user saves $879 per year on car insurance.
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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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