Helpful tips after filing an auto insurance claim
What happens after filing an auto claim and what should you do to better understand the claim process?
You've been in an auto accident and filed your claim. What happens next and what questions might you run into after filing an auto claim? Here are some tips that might help you in this process.
Car accident information
Alert your agent and your insurance company as soon as possible after having a crash. Take notes when speaking with your agent or adjuster. If you need to ask questions later, you'll have information to reference in front of you. One other thing: If you have injuries, the adjuster may ask some detailed questions about the injuries, that's part of the process.
Below are a few tips of what to do immediately after an accident:
- Move your vehicle to a safe location if you can do so safely.
- Turn engine off and if you can do so safely, exit the vehicle and move to a place of safety.
- Call 911.
- Exchange insurance information with others involved in the accident.
- Get as much information as possible such as make and model of the other car.
- Take photos at the scene including license plates of the cars involved, damage to the cars, traffic signs, road conditions, etc. This may be helpful with the claim investigation.
Post car accident symptoms
Injuries and pain can vary after an auto accident such as headaches, neck or back pain, muscle tension, anxiety and dizziness - just to name a few.
Determine if you need to seek medical attention. Contact your claims representative if you begin experiencing injuries that maybe be related to the accident as there may be coverage available for medical treatment depending on the coverages you carry.
Car accident repairs
You have the right to choose the shop you want for repairs. State Farm offers customers the Select Service Program option designed to offer vehicle owners additional levels of service including quality workmanship, guaranteed completion dates, limited lifetime warranties on completed repairs, and pick-up and delivery service. The Select Service Program is intended to provide vehicle owners with a positive experience with the repair process.
Another option for customers is to use the State Farm mobile app® to submit photos of the damage on eligible claims. Customers will need access from Claims and log in information.
Do I need to keep receipts?
It is always a good idea to keep your receipts and related documents, no matter if it ends up being part of the car insurance claim process or not.
A good practice to follow is to work with your insurance company early and throughout the process. Your insurer can provide resources to help make the auto insurance claim process easier, answer your questions and help get you back on the road.
