Making a car insurance claim can be stressful and complicated. Knowing what to do and having the right information helps make the process smoother. Continue reading to learn the necessary steps for submitting a claim on your car insurance policy.
When Should You File a Claim?
You must make a claim when your vehicle is damaged in an accident due to weather, fire, or theft. Your automobile insurance policy’s comprehensive and collision coverage will pay for the repairs or replacement in these cases. You must also file a claim if you damage another person’s car or property. This falls under liability coverage.
Other common reasons to file a claim that prompt starting the claims process include needing windshield repair or replacement, medical payments for injuries sustained in an accident, rental reimbursement if your car is in the shop being repaired, and roadside assistance for a breakdown or flat tyre. Start the claims process immediately when a loss or accident occurs.
How To File a Car Insurance Claim?
Follow these steps when you need to submit an auto insurance claim:
1. Report the Incident
For accidents, call the police to get an official report. This is especially important if there are injuries or significant damage. Take photos of the damage to all vehicles and property involved, and capture the license plates in the images, too.
2. Call Your Insurance Provider
Contact your auto insurance company right away. ACKO offers helpful claims assistance through its website, mobile app, or toll-free number. Provide details like the incident’s date, time, location, and what happened. Ask what documents you need to submit for the specific type of claim.
3. Complete the Claim Form
Your insurer will send a claim form once you start the claims process. Fill this out with as much detail as possible. For repairs, include a repair estimate from a licensed mechanic.
4. Submit Supporting Documentation
Your insurer will need documents like proof of insurance, police reports and photos. Send copies rather than originals, and keep the originals for your records. For injuries, submit medical records and bills – include these even if you have separate health insurance coverage.
5. Get Your Car Repaired
Take your car to an approved repair shop. Insurers like ACKO partner with repair shops and offer hassle-free, cashless claims. The shop will handle contacting your insurance provider and managing payments directly. If you’ve already paid for repairs out of pocket, submit the paid invoice to seek reimbursement from the insurer.
6. Follow Up on Claim Status
Communicate with your insurer at every stage of the claims procedure. To simply check the progress of your claim, log in online or use the mobile app. Provide any additional details requested to avoid delays. Ask your claims adjuster for any updates or if you have any questions.
Conclusion
The claims process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. Following these steps will ensure you know what to do should you ever need to file an insurance claim. Buy car insurance online from ACKO to make complicated situations easy.
ACKO is known for straightforward claims servicing, with convenient features like online filing, direct repair shops, and 24/7 support. Drivers trust ACKO to make filing a claim simple and hassle-free. Visit the ACKO website today to get an auto insurance quote and experience helpful claims support.