How to File an Insurance Claim

So you get into a car accident. Your business is damaged by vandalism. A fire burns down your home.

In these cases, insurance coverage can help recover your losses. But the compensation does not come automatically. You must let your insurance company know about the situation, and this involves filing a claim.

Filing a claim may seem like a lot of work. And it can be, but that is the only way you will get compensated for your losses. The process may vary a little based on the insurer, but the general process is the same. Here are the steps to take to file a claim.

Call the Police (Optional)

This may or may not be necessary, but if a crime was committed, someone was injured, or there is significant damage, call the police. You will get a police report, which shows the details of what happened in an accident or at a crime scene and record the information for all involved parties. The information in the report will make the claim process much easier.

Document Everything

Document what you can from the accident or crime scene. In the event of a car accident, you will need to gather the following information:

• Name, address, and phone number of the other driver(s)
• Driver’s license information from the other parties
• Insurance policy numbers
• Year, make, model, and license plate numbers of the vehicles involved

You should also include the following:

• Photos of the accident, including damage to the vehicle
• Contact information from witnesses

If you were injured, save all medical bills, reports, and other documentation related to your injuries.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you have gotten to a safe place and have gotten medical treatment, contact your insurance agent. Let them know what happened and ask what you need to do to file a claim. Your agent can give you a breakdown of the process.

It is best to contact your insurer as soon as possible after the event. In Michigan, the statute of limitations is three years for personal injury claims. This refers to how long you have to file a claim. However, some insurance companies may require you to file a claim within a much shorter deadline (like 30 days). So don’t delay.

You may be able to file a claim while you’re on the phone with your agent. You may also be able to file the claim online or through a mobile app.

Next comes an investigation. An insurance adjuster will take a look at all the facts and determine what happened. Once they determine the case, they will figure out how to pay for your damages.

Contact Us Today

The insurance claim process can be tricky. You may not know the entire process. What if you miss a step or two?

When you choose Hartman Insurance Agency, Inc. in Saline, Michigan for your insurance needs, you are in good hands. We will guide you through the process with ease. Schedule a consultation with us today. Contact us via (734) 999-4190 or online here.