One of the wisest decisions you can make is to insure your motor vehicle with the best auto insurance in Rochester, NY. Knowing that you are covered is certainly reassuring when you run into a situation like an auto accident and your local professional agent will be with you through the claims process. Even if it is the first time you have had to file a claim, everything can go smoothly with the help of your agent.
Here are the steps you need to follow when you are involved with a car accident whether or not there is personal injury or property damage.
- Start your claim: This is the logical first step if you are safe and sound. If you are injured, your first action is to go to the hospital, even if the injury seems minor. You start your claim by informing the agent who provided you with the auto insurance in Rochester, NY as soon as possible.
- Contact the claims adjuster: After you have filed a claim, a claims adjuster or handler will take charge of looking at your car and determining the degree of damage. Keep important information like your policy number, insured’s name (as written on the policy), claim numbers and police reports handy. The adjuster will examine your car, look over your insurance coverage, and decide the best course of action.
- Car repair mechanic: There are several car repair options available. You can direct the insurance agent and claims handler to a mechanic or body shop you trust or they can also find a repair shop they trust. In either case, your car should be repaired in the best possible manner. A good mechanic and body shop will get your vehicle up and running in no time.
- Settling the insurance claim: The last part of the claims process is settling the claim. It depends in part on the type of accident in which you have been involved. If it was minor, it will obviously take less time than if it was severe. The number of vehicles and people involved, the degree of injuries, and who is at fault, will also play a big part in the speed of settling the claim.
These are the steps that are generally involved in the claims process for an auto accident. Once the repair bill comes, you will surely be glad you have the appropriate auto insurance in Rochester, NY. You should inform the issuing agent as quickly as possible to make sure the claim gets filed. Remember to drive safely and hope that you can avoid dealing with the trauma of an auto accident.