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Disclaimer: This information is not intended as an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, a franchise. It is for informational purposes only. We will not offer you a franchise unless we have complied with applicable pre-sale registration and disclosure documents in your state. Currently, the following states regulate the offer and sale of franchises: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Within the U.S.A., we offer franchises solely by means of our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). There are also countries outside the U.S.A. that have laws governing the offer and sale of franchises. If you are a resident of one of these states or countries, we will not offer you a franchise unless and until we have complied with pre-sale registration and disclosure requirements that apply in your jurisdiction.
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A declarations page, also sometimes referred to as a “dec page,” is a page from your insurance policy that sums up your policy coverage.
Life can be unpredictable, and accidents happen. When they do, knowing how to handle a car insurance claim can save you time, stress, and money. This guide will walk you through the key steps to take if you find yourself needing to file a claim.
Immediately after an accident, document as much as possible. Take clear photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, the accident scene from multiple angles, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from everyone involved, including witnesses. Make sure to note:
Call the police to report the accident, especially if there are significant damages or injuries. A police report can be a crucial piece of evidence when you file your claim.
Even if you feel fine, some injuries might not be immediately apparent. It's wise to get a medical check-up to ensure there are no hidden injuries. Keep all medical records related to the accident.
Understanding when to file a claim can help you avoid unnecessary premium increases, as a claim could raise your premium more than your repair costs.
Consider filing a claim if:
Consider not filing a claim if:
Check with your agent and clarify your coverage under your current policy. Once you've confirmed your coverage, get an estimate of how much it will take to fix the damage. If you have an idea of how much it will cost, you’ll save time and set expectations for how much you might receive after your deductible.
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Have your policy number, the police report, and any documentation ready. Be honest and detailed when describing the accident. Inaccurate or false information can delay the process or lead to a denied claim.
Stay in touch with your insurance adjuster to track the progress of your claim. Provide any additional documentation they might need promptly.
Once your claim is approved, you can proceed with repairs. Your insurance company may recommend repair shops, but you have the right to choose your own.
If you're the victim of a hit-and-run, report it to the police immediately. Document any damage and provide as much information as possible about the other vehicle.
If the accident involves a rental car, notify the rental company and follow their procedures. Your insurance or credit card may offer rental car coverage.
For non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters, follow similar steps. Document the damage, file a police report if necessary, and contact your insurer. Accidents are stressful, but knowing what to do in the event of a car insurance claim can make the process smoother. Be prepared, document everything, and understand when and how to file a claim. By following these steps, you'll be better equipped to handle the unexpected. Ready to learn more? Stay informed and protect yourself by exploring other helpful insurance guides on our website. If you’re an existing Goosehead client needing assistance in filing a claim, please reach out to our Service team for help.
The contents of this article are meant as general information to help you understand personal lines insurance and not specific to a particular policy. Policies, coverages and discounts can vary by state and insurance carrier. To understand your coverage, you should speak directly with a licensed insurance agent or read your full policy contract. Call your agent or contact us at (833) 779-4090.
Summer is here, and while it's the season for road trips and beach outings, it's also a time when certain misconceptions about driving can lead to unnecessary risks. To help you stay safe and informed, we've collaborated with insurance experts to debunk five common myths about summer driving. Myth 1: Cars Don't Overheat in Summer Anymore.