Car Insurance Claims
Making the claims procedure clearer should your car be involved in an accident.
All of us hope we never find ourselves in the position of having to make a car insurance claim, not least because the circumstances may be very traumatic for any individuals involved. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having to make a claim it is worth remembering that different insurance companies may have different claims procedures, therefore it is advisable to read your policy document thoroughly before you begin the claims process. In most cases there will be a chapter or guide in your policy on what to do in such an event.
Some car insurers have simplified the claims process by providing a 24 hour help line to give you assistance at the time you most need it, which could prove invaluable if your car is immobilised after an accident. It is prudent to make a note of the 'claims line' phone numbers once you receive your policy documents and place them in your car - along with other details about your insurance but not the document itself - in case of emergency. Your car insurer may provide you with a tax disc holder or leaflet which contains details of claims help lines and windscreen claim phone numbers to make things even simpler.
If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a car accident with another vehicle, your insurance provider will want to know precise details of what actually happened so, as soon as it is safe and sensible to do so, try to gather and remember as much information as possible regarding the entire incident. Sketch the road and accident scene if possible and make a note of the weather conditions at the time. Be sure to take the name, address and phone numbers of all other drivers involved and details of their insurance companies. It could also save time and be of great help to all involved to obtain personal details of any witnesses involved, but even if there were no other vehicles or people involved in the accident, you will still need to provide your insurer with as much information as possible.
It is possible your insurance company may operate a recommended repairer scheme which means they will already have arrangements in place with certain garage repair centres that they have approved. This often helps to simplify the claims process as your insurer will advise you of your nearest recommended repairer. Dependant upon the level of car cover you have purchased you may be entitled to a courtesy car while your own is being repaired. Most, if not all, vehicle insurers will have agreements with windscreen repair companies, but it's wise to check the details of your policy before having a damaged car windscreen replaced to avoid your claim being refused, particularly as you may be required to use approved repairers only.
And in the event that you discover your car, part of your car or property that was inside it has been stolen or vandalised, it is vital that you inform the police and your insurance company immediately. Your insurer should be able to provide guidance, assistance, reassurance and advice on what is likely to happen from the first step of the claims process and how long before you can expect to be back driving your own car again.
