Easy Guide to Filing an Insurance Claim

A car accident or damage to your property can turn your world upside down. The sudden loss can leave you with anxiety, frustration, anger, or sadness. If you experience a claim these simple steps can help the process proceed smoothly.

1. CALL 911! Does the loss require emergency first responders? If so, call 911. If not, perhaps a tow truck, or other friendly assistance.

2. Is everyone ok? If there are any Injuries- Attend to injuries be it yours, loved ones, or of other parties. You may not be trained or certified to perform life-saving efforts, but you do have an obligation to make sure others involved receive any medical attention that is required. Do not assume they are ok or able to call for help themselves.

3. Minimize damage by removing items from harm. Property damage can be minimized by removing belongings from being damaged or damaged further in cases such as a fire or water intrusion. Take caution in doing so and do not put yourself in danger.

4. Take Notes and/or Pictures of the Event or Loss at the time of Loss- Details are important especially when everything is fresh in your mind. Notate any witnesses and get their information. In many cases that involve private property, such as a parking lot, getting local law enforcement to come to provide a report can prove difficult. A witness can help in determining fault, even if the other party admits fault initially.

5. Contact Your Agent- even if you feel it is someone else's fault. In many cases, having your company handle the claim for you will ease your frustrations knowing that your carrier represents your best interests. In some claims, such as private property, a carrier may find it 50/50 or no-fault due to state laws. See link for information on No-Fault States https://www.nationwide.com/lc/resources/auto-insurance/articles/no-fault-insurance-states

6. Get Estimates- Your right as a consumer allows you to work with a vendor or contractor of your choosing. Keep in mind that most carriers have a preferred network of vendors that they have experience working with handling claims, but you are not required to use them. Feel free to get multiple estimates. You have experienced a loss and disruption to your daily routines, it is important to feel comfortable with who and how you get whole again.

7. Work with the Adjuster to ensure smooth and efficient handling and disbursement of claim funds. Please make sure that the adjuster handling the claim has a way to effectively communicate with you. At times, the adjuster may have questions or follow-up documents that are needed to process payments. For example, Title of vehicles, Receipts, Appraisals, etc. You may experience a delay in check disbursements if the carrier is waiting on needed documents.

8. Communicate with your agent after the claim has been completed. In some cases, you may now qualify for a new discount. One major component of the premium rating for your home or dwelling insurance is the age of the roof, heating, electrical, and plumbing components. If you experience a hail storm claim, you may replace the entire roof covering(shingles, shakes, etc), so the age of the roof now would be new versus 15 or 20 years old. Contact your agent to ensure your policy is updated to current conditions.

No matter what type of claim you experience it likely will be a bad day, but it doesn't. need to make it a bad life. Take time, at least annually, to review your policies with your agent. Price matters, but coverage pays.