Filing an auto insurance claim can feel stressful — especially right after an accident or unexpected damage to your vehicle. But the process doesn’t have to be confusing. When you understand what to do, what information to gather, and how insurers make decisions, you can file your claim smoothly and increase your chances of a fast, successful resolution.
Below is a step-by-step guide to filing an auto insurance claim the right way.
Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
Your first priority after an accident is safety.
• Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible
• Check for injuries and call 911 if needed
• Turn on hazard lights
• Stay calm and avoid confrontation
Safety first — the claim can be handled afterward.
Step 2: Document the Scene
Good documentation helps support your claim and speeds up insurer decisions.
Gather:
• Photos of all vehicles involved
• Photos of damage, skid marks, road conditions, and surroundings
• Driver’s license and insurance info of the other party
• Witness names and contact info
• Police badge numbers (if officers respond)
The more evidence you collect, the smoother your claim process.
Step 3: Call the Police (When Required)
A police report can be extremely helpful.
Call law enforcement if:
• Someone is injured
• Vehicles are not drivable
• Another driver refuses to share information
• The accident involves suspected DUI or hit-and-run
A police report often clarifies fault and protects you legally.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurer as soon as possible — ideally the same day.
You can file a claim through:
• Mobile app
• Online portal
• Phone call
• Your insurance agent
Expect to provide:
• Your policy number
• Date, location, and description of the incident
• Photos, videos, and witness details
• Police report number (if available)
Most insurers have 24/7 claim support.
Step 5: Provide All Required Information
After you file, your insurer will assign an adjuster. They may ask for:
• More accident photos
• Repair shop estimates
• Statements from you and other drivers
• Additional documents if injuries occurred
• Recorded interviews (optional but common)
Respond quickly. Delayed information can slow down your claim.
Step 6: Work With the Claims Adjuster
The adjuster evaluates the damage and decides how much the insurer will pay.
They may:
• Inspect your vehicle in person
• Request repair estimates
• Review documentation and police reports
• Determine fault
• Approve repair shops or payouts
Be honest and consistent in your statements — accuracy helps your claim.
Step 7: Choose a Repair Shop
Depending on your insurer:
• You may use a preferred repair shop
• You can choose any licensed shop you want
• Some insurers offer lifetime guarantees on repairs from their network
Always review the estimate and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Step 8: Pay Your Deductible
Your deductible is the portion you must pay before insurance kicks in.
For example:
• $500 deductible + $3,000 repair = insurer pays $2,500
If another driver is at fault, their insurance may reimburse your deductible later.
Step 9: Track Your Claim
Most insurers let you track claim progress through:
• Online dashboards
• Mobile apps
• Email or text updates
Stay informed and follow up if you haven’t heard from your adjuster in several days.
Step 10: Close the Claim
A claim is closed when:
• Repairs are completed
• Medical bills (if applicable) are processed
• Payments are issued
• All parties sign necessary documents
Keep all receipts and repair documentation for future reference.
Tips for Filing Auto Insurance Claims Successfully
• Report the incident immediately
• Provide accurate and consistent information
• Keep your statements factual, not emotional
• Never admit fault at the scene
• Photograph everything — more is better
• Keep records of expenses (towing, rental cars, repairs)
• Follow your adjuster’s instructions carefully
• Review your policy so you know what’s covered
• Ask about rental car reimbursement
• Communicate regularly with your insurer
These simple steps help speed up payouts and prevent complications.