Claims procedure
When you have to lodge a claim with your car insurance company, it will not be under the nicest of circumstances. You will be upset, even traumatized, or injured depending on the event that brought on the claim. It could be the result of your car being stolen, a carjacking or an accident. Ensuring that your financial records are up to date and in order will make your life much easier during these stressful times.
Keep all your documents in a safe place and copies thereof at another place of safety. When you take out car insurance in the first place make a point thereof to familiarize yourself with the procedure you need to follow in case of a loss. Every insurance company will have their own procedure to follow so find out what your company’s claims procedure is.
Make sure you report the incident to the police as soon as possible and get a case number which you will need for the insurance company. There is also a time limit for lodging the claim with the company. Many insurers now have online claim forms that you can obtain, complete and fax back to them. If you have an insurance broker or agent, ask them to help you with the claim. If an insurance adjuster is appointed by the insurance company keep in touch with him and provide any outstanding documents. This will speed up your claim.
Insurance companies also have help desks that will provide you with assistance in completing your insurance claim.