No matter how well-trained your drivers are or how many precautions you take, accidents strike unexpectedly. When the unexpected happens, it’s essential to understand the steps that need to be taken next to file an insurance claim properly. In this blog, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to the insurance claims process to help you navigate the claims journey seamlessly. From the moment of chaos, we’ll show you how to file a claim with ease to ensure your road to recovery is smooth and your business operations stay on track.
Step 1: Contact the Police
The first step every person should take after an accident is to contact the police. This is necessary to ensure that an official report is filed. When reporting the incident to the officer, provide accurate details and a clear description of what happened. This report will play a crucial role during the claims process.
Step 2: Obtain Information About Parties Involved
Gathering information about the parties involved in the accidents is crucial. Collect the following details from anyone involved:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Insurance provider
- Policy number
If there are any witnesses, be sure to gather their contact information as well. This information will assist in the investigation and evaluation of the claim.
Step 3: Take Photos of the Accident Site
If it is safe to do so, take pictures of the accident site from several different angles. These photos can serve incredible value as evidence for the claim. Focus on capturing any damage to the vehicles involved, damage to yourself, skid marks, and the overall scene.
Step 4: Arrange for Vehicle Towing
If your vehicle is not drivable after the accident, arrange for it to be towed to a repair facility. Contact a trusted towing service provider to ensure your vehicle is handled properly. Inform the repair facility that the vehicle is being towed for an insurance claim.
Step 5: Obtain an Estimate for Repair
If your vehicle is still drivable after the accident, take it directly to a trusted repair facility to obtain an estimate for the repair costs. Make sure to communicate that the repair estimate is for an insurance claim involving an accident. The repair facility will help provide a detailed breakdown of the cost of damages.
Step 6: Review by the Claims Adjuster
A claims adjuster assigned by TIB Insurance will review the estimate provided by the repair facility. In some cases, an appraiser may be sent to inspect and assess the vehicle’s damage. The adjuster will then evaluate the claim based on the documentation and evidence collected.
Step 7: Communication With the Claims Adjuster
During the claims process, it’s essential to direct all inquiries and communication to the assigned claim adjuster or their designated representative. Do not engage directly with the claimant or their attorney.
Step 8: Expect Contact Within Two Working Days
After the claim has been filed, the claims adjuster will typically reach out to you within two working days. If you have not been contacted within that time frame, please reach out to TIB Insurance and someone on our team will be happy to help. Moreover, please let us know if:
- The damage significantly affects your continuing operations, if so, we will request that the insurance carrier expedite your claim
- Your circumstances change and this loss will have a greater impact on your business than originally anticipated
TIB Insurance is committed to ensuring a smooth claims process and will be here for you every step of the way to help you get back on track.
Enjoy Peace of Mind With TIB Insurance
Filing an insurance claim after an accident can be an intricate process, but with the right guidance, it can be handled smoothly. At TIB Insurance, our team of transportation insurance experts are here to help ease the process for you and give you peace of mind. We have the resources necessary to handle all your insurance needs so you don’t have to stress in the case of an accident or claim. Please contact us to learn more about our services and how we can start building a lasting relationship today.