What To Do In The Event Of A Claim
Home and Auto Claims
What to do in the event of an Auto Claim
Approximately 6 million auto accidents occur each year. If you are involved in an accident, you should know what to do.
At the scene: Get help for the injured Call 911 and get trained emergency medical personnel to the scene.
Protect yourself and your vehicle from damage or loss.
Exchange information with other involved parties and get the names of any witnesses. In most states, it is unlawful to leave the scene of an accident without permission. Provide the police with whatever information they require.
Do not make any statements at the scene accepting responsibility for the accident. The insurance company will investigate and will make a determination.
Filing your claim:
Report all losses, no matter how minor.
Contact your agent or your insurance company if your agent is not available. Our web site will provide you with your company�s 800 numbers.
Do this as soon as possible even if you are far from home and even if someone else caused the accident.
Glass Damage
If your loss involves only auto glass damage you should notify your agent immediately. You may select your own glass company to repair the damages. You should be sure that they will perform the work for the allowed amount by your insurance company. Notifying your agent or company immediately can save you money as the damage maybe repaired instead of replaced saving you the deductible.
Keep copies of all your paperwork for future reference.
Never:
Make a deal for damages
Leave the scene of even a minor accident
Accept an offer of private settlement
Deny injury to you or your passengers
What to do if you have a Homeowners Loss
If you have a homeowner�s loss it is important that you promptly report the loss, protect your proprty from further damage and carefully document the extent of your loss.
* Notify the fire or police department if the loss is the result of fire, theft or other crime.
* Promptly report the loss to your agent or your insurance company if your agent is not available. Our web site will provide you with your company�s 800 numbers.
* Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage but be careful not to risk your own safety when making repairs.
* Retain damaged property including furniture, personal belongs and equipment because the adjuster will need to evaluate the damage.
* Do not make extensive permanent repairs until after the claims adjuster has been to your home and assessed the damage.
* Prepare an inventory of all personal property destroyed, damaged or stolen as a result of t he loss. Show the quantity, description, actual cash value and amount of loss for each item.
* Collect all pertinent invoices, bills and documents that substantiate the figures in the inventory. Attach photographs and owners manuals that would help confirm the value of listed items.
* Save receipts for any materials you buy. Keep track of any other expenses you incur because of the loss (such as additional living expenses, relocation and storage expenses.) Many of these expenses may be reimbursable under your policy.
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