The auto insurance claims process generally begins while you are at the scene of the accident. Even if your car was the only one involved, it is generally best to call the police so that you can get a police report for the insurance company.
After calling the police, you also need to contact your insurance company to start the claims process. You will tell the insurer what happened, and an adjuster will be assigned to your case. If you need medical attention, it is important to get this taken care of immediately to treat and document the injuries.
Contacing the Adjuster
Depending on who is at fault for the accident, you may need to talk to an adjuster from your own insurance company or an adjuster from the other driver’s insurance company. The adjuster from the company who is handling the claim will generally want to inspect the damage to your car. The adjuster will ask you questions about the accident and who is at fault. The adjuster may take pictures of the damage and take notes of any statements that you make.
Assessing the Damage
The adjuster may use a few different methods to determine the damage that was caused. If the damage is small, he may want you to take the car to several repair shops to get estimates. When the damage is substantial, he may evaluate the damage personally or send it to a preferred mechanic in the area. Insurance companies typically have an assigned value for each component of the car that is damaged and will be willing to pay that value. The adjuster will also want copies of any medical bills that you might have as a result of the accident.
Getting the Settlement
After a few days or weeks, depending on the extent of the damage and injuries involved, the adjuster will contact you to offer a settlement. The settlement that the adjuster offers will include money to repair or replace your car, money for medical bills and possibly money for pain and suffering. If you feel the offer is fair, you can accept the amount, and the check for your portion will be sent to you. If the offer seems unfair, you can negotiate with the adjuster for a larger settlement or hire a lawyer.