How to File an Auto Insurance Claim

Accidents happen fast and leave you shaken. Filing the claim doesn’t have to add to the stress. Follow these steps and you’ll have everything moving in the right direction.

Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

Check yourself and any passengers for injuries first. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if the accident is blocking traffic. Move vehicles out of the road only if it’s safe to do so.

Step 2: Call the Police

A police report gives your claim credibility and creates an official record of what happened. Even for a minor fender bender, it’s worth having on file.

Step 3: Document the Scene

Take photos of all vehicles involved, the damage, the road conditions, and any visible injuries. Grab the other driver’s name, contact info, license plate, and insurance details. Note the time, location, and weather.

Step 4: Exchange Information, Not Blame

Stick to the facts when talking with the other driver. Don’t admit fault or speculate about what caused the crash, even if you think you know. Let the claims process sort that out.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the claim as soon as possible, ideally the same day. Have your policy number, the police report number, and your photos ready. Our report a claim page has direct instructions for getting a claim started.

Step 6: Work With Your Adjuster

An adjuster will review the damage, may inspect your vehicle, and will walk you through your coverage. Ask questions if anything about the process isn’t clear. That’s what they’re there for.

Step 7: Get Repairs Scheduled

Once your claim is approved, you can typically choose your own repair shop unless your policy specifies otherwise. Keep every receipt and document tied to the repair.

What to Have Ready Before You Call

Policy number
Police report number, if one was filed
Photos from the scene
Other driver’s insurance information
A rough timeline of what happened

Having this ready cuts down on back and forth and speeds up your payout.

More From Our Blog

Wondering why your premium keeps climbing? Check out our earlier post, What Raises Your Auto Insurance Premium in Webster, SD?, for a look at the factors that affect your rate, including a claim like this one.