What To Do When You Have An Insurance Claim

Personal insurance is designed to provide financial resources in the event of an unplanned accident or loss. Most people have at least one insurance claim, and it is reassuring to know you have the resources to help you get back on your feet after a covered loss.

Home Insurance Claim

Having your home damaged or destroyed by a fire can be emotionally and financially devastating. It can be overwhelming trying to rebuild your life after a fire, but if you have the right kind of homeowner’s insurance, you may not have to deal with a ruinous financial loss. Here is our guide to help you manage the process of restoring your home and property.

Home Insurance 

• First, call 911 from a safe location to deal with any fire emergency.
• Call family members to let them know you are ok.
• Call your insurance company as soon as possible.
• Make every attempt to minimize the loss and/or damage.
• Fill out all information requested by the insurance company.
• Make a list of all damaged or destroyed property.
• Start to establish a replacement cost of damaged/destroyed property.
• Make repairs if needed to prevent further damage.
• Do not go back into your home if it is unsafe.
• It is ok to ask questions to make sure you are satisfied.

What To Do After An Auto Accident

Automobile accidents happen every day. Although no one wants to experience an auto accident, knowing what to do in case one happens to you could soften the impact on your life in the days and weeks to follow. You purchase auto insurance to help you through accidents when, or if, they happen. If you have an auto accident, we are here to help you. You may always call us to help you through the process.

• If you are involved in an accident, think about your safety and those around you before thinking about insurance. The first priority is to check for injuries at the scene. Call 911 for medical help if anyone at the scene is injured. Notify the police as soon as possible.
• Try to protect the scene; don’t move vehicles unless the police instruct you to.
• Obtain the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all persons involved, including passengers and witnesses. It is a good idea to look at driver’s licenses. Record the license plate numbers of all cars involved. Get complete Insurance information, including policy numbers. Having the agent's name and the number is also beneficial.

• Never admit an accident was your fault, even if you think it was. An apology can be construed as an admission of fault. Let the authorities determine who was responsible. Auto accidents can be disorienting even if you are not physically injured. You may not be aware of all factors leading up to the crash.

• Contact your agent or company as soon as possible. Have the basic facts ready, like your policy number, claim information, and contact information. 

• Prevent further damage. If your vehicle is damaged and is in need of repair, get a quote from an auto body shop.  

• Start to document the loss. Take photos, keep all receipts, and obtain the contact information of all people involved. Don't throw out damaged property or other expensive items until an adjuster has seen them. You may need this documentation if the insurance company gives you a lower payout than expected, and you need to appeal. 

• Always submit your claim in writing (email) with all receipts and a cover letter. 

• Most consumers find that their claim is paid quickly, easily, and fairly. This is another reason to have an agent on your team. We can help get you the best possible settlement.

Try to Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Failing to read your policy. Read your policy to understand your obligation, what is covered, and the insurance company’s duties to you.
• Lack of documentation. Make sure you document conversations and information.
• Failure to cooperate with your insurer. You have an obligation to cooperate with your insurer. They are there to help you, and the more you help them, the better off you will be.
• Not saving damaged property. You will need to save all damaged property until the adjuster or salvage company documents the loss.
• Paying a contractor directly. Don’t pay contractors directly, unless the work is outside the scope of the insurance coverage. Even then, check with your insurer first.
• Not being proactive. You will need to be actively communicating with your adjuster and insurer.