Road accidents may not be on your agenda for the day but it is something that is not impossible to happen. They can occur suddenly and especially when you least expect it. Having your own auto insurance will prove priceless when this predicament happens to you.
There are several policies you can choose from that can provide you and your vehicle coverage in times like this but not all claims after the accident can be processed successfully. Whether or not you are at fault, there are some important steps that you have to take to make sure that the problem will not become more burdensome.
Here are some useful tips that Durham auto insurance and other car insurance companies provide to make your filing less stressful and has a better chance of faster approval.
1. Take pictures of the damage on both vehicles.
Bringing a camera with you or a phone with one is important when you are driving. In case if accidents happen, you are going to need to take pictures that both the police and insurance company will find useful. Images can prove how much damage you get from the accident. It is also advisable to take photos of the other person’s car and also the surroundings as they will help create a clear picture of how the accident happens. Not only solely for insurance claims purposes, but these photos can discourage both parties to create false reports or falsify the damages that occurred.
2. Exchange insurance information with the other driver.
You need to exchange insurance details with the other party. It is better if you will be the one to write down the info or be there when they get the information. Accuracy is important and avoiding misinformation during this stage will avoid future disputes when a claim is filed.
You may also want to take a picture of the proof of insurance. This helps to make sure that the right company pays for the damages, potentially keeping your rates low, and it also gives you an easy way to tell the police who was involved.
3. Contact the local authorities.
For any accident that involves two vehicles, you need to call the police and report it. They have to come to the scene, interview you and write up their own report on what happened. If you skip this step, you may not be able to file for an insurance claim since your insurance provider is going to ask for the police report when you do.
4. Call your insurance agent.
Finally, you have to get in touch with your agent. He or she may be able to file the claim for you, or the agent can tell you who to call. A professional agent will make the whole process very easy, even if you have never done it before, by walking you through the steps and taking on a lot of the work.
Aside from these tips, it also pays to be aware of the necessary papers you need when filing a claim. Here is list that you might want to check before every trip you go to using your car:
- Policy number which you can find on your insurance card.
- Date and location of accident
- An explanation or description on how the accident happened.
- Name, address, license plate, and insurance information of the other party involved.
- Police report number and the name of the police department or personnel.
Had an accident and had a good or bad experience with your insurance company? Leave us a comment and dont forget to share with other car owners!
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