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Got car insurance claim questions? The auto insurance claims process is less daunting than you think. With a little knowledge and preparation, you can work with your insurance representative to make filing a claim as efficient and painless as possible. Below, we’ve outlined some frequently asked questions we hear all the time regarding the claims process.
How Do Deductibles Work?
Before an insurance company becomes responsible for payment for a covered loss, you will generally be required to pay a “deductible” out of pocket. For example: If your deductible is $300 and your car sustains $4000 worth of covered damage, then you will pay $300 for the repairs and your insurance company will pay the remaining $3700. You may usually choose what deductible amount you are willing to pay. The lower the deductible, the higher your premium payment will be, and vice versa.
If I’m Not At Fault, Do I Still Have To Pay the Deductible?
Generally, you will have to pay a deductible for certain coverages no matter who is determined to be at fault. However, you usually have the option of trying to recover your deductible amount in court if the other party in the accident is determined to be at fault.
Does Filing A Claim Mean My Premiums Will Increase?
Not necessarily. Many insurers these days allow your first claim to be “forgiven” if you have a clean driving record and a good history with the company. Beyond one accident though, your premium rates will generally increase, as insurers are forced to classify you differently from customers with no recorded incidents. Remember: It’s important to keep your driving record as clean as possible, as this will help keep your premiums lower in the event of an accident reclassification.
How Does A Claim Affect My Discounts or Coupons?
The answer to this question depends on who is determined to be at fault for the accident, the type of coupon or discount, and your driving record. For example, if you had enjoyed a “safe driver” discount prior to being found at fault for an accident, then odds are you’ll have to relinquish your discount. Other discounts like corporate rate breaks of multiple policy discounts probably won’t be affected by filing a claim.
Can Filing a Claim Lead to A Cancellation of My Policy?
Usually only in extreme circumstances can filing a claim lead to policy cancellation. Grounds for cancellation can sometimes include accidents caused by the insured while under the influence of drugs or alcohol; a series of claims in a short amount of time; accidents caused by the insured due to speeding, racing, or other reckless driving.
Who Decides Whether My Claim is Honored?
In some ways this is a trick question! It’s up to you to carefully read through and select the coverages you want to take on for your automobile. Be sure to continually familiarize yourself with your coverages and don’t hesitate to talk with your insurer personally to make sure you understand what’s covered and what isn’t. When it comes time to review your claim, one your insurer’s first obligations is to point out to you which coverages apply and which do not.
Should I File A Police Report For Minor Damage?
Always file a police report. It’s an invaluable piece of evidence and documentation for any unforeseen or additional legal proceedings resulting from the damage.
My Damages Are Minor. Do I Still Need To File A Claim?
Ultimately it’s up to you to decide whether or not to file a claim. In some cases it might make sense to pay for minor repairs out of pocket so as to avoid a potential premium increase. Advantages of filing a claim include protection from liability for late-emerging damage from the accident and additional protection against any potential litigation.
The reason you buy insurance is to transfer the risk of loss, so filing a claim could help protect you in case there are covered damages or injuries discovered later. Additionally, if you become involved in litigation because of a covered accident, your Allstate insurance could help you by providing legal counsel. Lastly, when you file a claim against your Allstate policy you can take advantage of our inspection and repair options that include workmanship guarantees.
What if Property Gets Stolen From My Car? Am I Covered?
This all depends on your policy and coverages. Generally, insurers offer additional coverages for sound systems, etc… Other property items—like computer equipment or luggage might instead be covered by other coverages like homeowners or travel insurance.
Just What Does “Totaled” Mean?
In order to pronounce a car “totaled,” your insurer will send an adjuster to inspect your vehicle. If the extent of the damage is determined to exceed the vehicles fair market worth, your insurer will then declare the vehicle a total loss and will pay you the actual cash value of the vehicle up to the policy limit—minus any deductible.