What Happens After a Car Accident?

Imagine you are leaving work and are ready to relax in the comfort of your own home, when suddenly, you have to deal with the consequences of another bad driver on the road. A car accident can add a lot of unwanted stress and confusion, especially when you are not sure what steps to take next. Understanding the insurance process during a car accident is crucial, even if you were not the one at fault. The three main steps every driver should take in such situations are to report the incident, file for an insurance claim to determine who is responsible, and to take care of any repairs.

Reporting the Incident

After making sure no one is hurt, the first and most important step is reporting the incident to the police and your insurance company. Drivers should exchange information such as phone numbers, license numbers, insurance information, and driver’s license information. Taking pictures on the incident and collecting information from witnesses are also important steps to take which can provide additional evidence. A police report can also be helpful to provide an official record as to what exactly happened. Providing accurate and honest information can help the insurance company understand what happened and how to help.

Filing an Insurance Claims

After the accident is reported, an insurance claim may be opened. An adjuster, assigned by the insurance company, is in charge of looking over the accident, reviewing evidence, and deciding which policy is the right option for you. Your insurance may also request photos of the damage, the police report, witness information, and repair estimates. Depending on the situation and the severity of the accident, the adjuster may inspect the vehicle and the insurance companies involved may communicate together to determine the who was responsible and what coverage works.

Repairs and Payments

Once the insurance company evaluates the damage of the vehicle, the insurance declares whether the vehicle can be repaired or declared a total loss.  If repairs are possible, the insurance may cover eligible costs, taking out any applicable deductible. Some drivers are allowed to choose a repair shop; however, it is best to check with your insurer and the state rules. If the repair cost of the vehicle is too much compared to its value, the insurer may declare it a total loss. In these cases, the insurance calculates the vehicle’s cash value and often offers a settlement based on the coverage. In cases where the driver still owes a car loan, the insurance company may not always cover the remaining loan balance.

 

Car accident can be difficult to handle and are often overwhelming. However, understanding the insurance process can help you understand what steps to take and what to expect as the outcome. Before anything drivers should focus on safety, reporting the incident, and documenting evidence. After that, the insurance company investigates the claim, determines the applicable coverage, and potentially takes care of any repairs and costs. Even though every accident is not the same, being prepared and having basic understanding can help you make the process easier and less stressful.

You can experience the benefits of being a part of a full-service Independent Insurance Agency today! Simply contact Briggs Agency, Inc. if you are interested in an insurance review at 219-769-4840 or visit our website at www.BriggsAgency.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Blog post written by: Sara Trajanoska