Insurance Curator 
Introduction
Getting into a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Not only do you have to deal with the physical and emotional aftermath, but you also have to navigate the often-complicated process of filing an auto insurance claim. But fear not! With these tips, you’ll be able to handle your claim like a pro and get back on the road in no time.
Document Everything
The first thing you should do after an accident is to document everything. Take pictures of the damage to both vehicles, the surrounding area, and any injuries you may have sustained. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information as well. This will all come in handy when you’re filing your claim.
My friend Sarah learned this the hard way when she got into a fender bender and didn’t take any pictures. When she went to file her claim, the other driver tried to say that the damage was worse than it actually was. Luckily, a bystander had taken some photos and Sarah was able to prove her case.
Contact Your Insurance Company ASAP
As soon as you’re able, contact your insurance company to start the claims process. The sooner you do this, the better. Most insurance companies have a time limit for when you can file a claim after an accident, so don’t delay.
When my brother got into an accident last year, he waited a few days to call his insurance company because he thought the damage wasn’t that bad. But when he finally did call, they told him he had missed the window to file a claim and he had to pay for the repairs out of pocket.
Keep Detailed Records
Throughout the claims process, keep detailed records of everything. This includes any communication with your insurance company, receipts for repairs or medical bills, and any other expenses related to the accident. This will help ensure that you’re fully compensated for all of your losses.
My coworker Jessica kept a folder with all of her accident-related documents and it made the claims process so much smoother. She was able to provide her insurance company with everything they needed and got her car fixed in no time.
Know Your Policy
It’s important to know what your insurance policy covers before you get into an accident. This way, you’ll know what to expect when you file a claim. For example, if you have rental car coverage, you’ll be able to get a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
I once had a client who didn’t realize that her insurance policy didn’t cover damage from hitting a deer. She was shocked when her claim was denied and she had to pay for the repairs herself. Don’t let this happen to you – read your policy carefully!
Be Patient
The claims process can take some time, so be patient. Your insurance company will need to investigate the accident and determine who was at fault before they can settle your claim. This can take weeks or even months, so try not to get too frustrated.
My friend Tom had to wait three months for his claim to be settled after he was rear-ended on the highway. But he stayed patient and in the end, he was fully compensated for all of his damages and medical bills.
Conclusion
Filing an auto insurance claim after an accident doesn’t have to be a headache. By documenting everything, contacting your insurance company ASAP, keeping detailed records, knowing your policy, and being patient, you’ll be able to navigate the process with ease. And remember, accidents happen – but with the right preparation and knowledge, you’ll be able to handle whatever comes your way.