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Tips for Filing Auto Insurance Claims

When you are involved in a car accident, you probably think that filing an auto insurance claim is a huge hassle; however, for the most part, insurance companies are looking to have their claims process move as smoothly and as efficiently as possible. They don’t want any extra work just as you don’t. If you want to work with your auto insurance company and have the smallest amount of hassle as possible then follow the few tips outlined below and the claim should be processed quickly and smoothly.

Know Your Policy

First of all, you should always know the ins and outs of your auto insurance policy. Make certain that you understand the policy fully including your coverage limits, required deductibles and if you have collision insurance as not every policy has it since it is optional in some cases.

Collect Information at the Scene

More often than not, information is not gathered by the driver or policyholder at the scene of an auto accident. Your mind is on the accident, your vehicle’s damage and if everyone is okay rather than the process of the filing of a claim. However, there is information that you will need later or that could at least speed up the process for your insurance company. Take note of the location and time of the auto wreck and gather insurance information and vehicle information from the other party. Take pictures also - this coincides with the below tip.

Use Your Camera at the Scene

When involved in an auto collision, you need pictures of the accident. Make sure to get a picture of the other vehicle’s license plate number before you do anything else just in case they decide they don’t want to be caught at the scene and drive away – it happens more often than you think. Take pictures of your vehicle, every angle of it and do the same for the other vehicle. In addition, take pictures of anything you see on the road or around you that you may think could be valuable to your insurance company or the police. The police will also take pictures but that doesn’t mean you can’t take your own before they even get there. If you don’t have your camera with you, simply pull out your cell phone and use its camera.

File Your Claim ASAP

Don’t wait. Immediately notify your auto insurance company of the accident and start the claims process. The quicker you get started with your insurance company, the quicker the claim will be filed and processed so that you can get your car repaired and get back to your daily life prior to the accident. Waiting not only delays the process but it also gives time for your memory of the accident to fade causing you to possibly leave out very important details of the accident.

By following the above-mentioned tips when you become involved in a car collision, you are sure to get out with your claim being filed the right way and quickly.