There are about 9 million registered drivers in the state of Pennsylvania. That’s a lot of people out on the road, and the risk of an accident is high. If you find yourself involved in an accident, you’ll need to file an insurance claim.
There’s a specific auto insurance claim process you need to follow. Not knowing this process can cause a delay in getting your car repaired and your other bills paid.
We’ve created this guide to help guide you through the process so you can get on the road again quickly.
Pennsylvania Auto Insurance Claim Process
After your accident, you’ll need to contact your insurance company and let them know about the accident. Upon doing this, the insurance company will start a claim file for the incident.
You can file your claim by calling the number on your insurance card, going online, or through your insurance company’s app. Your insurance company will walk you through the process by requesting all of the necessary information.
This claim submission process could be much quicker and easier if you filed a police report. The insurance company can then get the majority of the necessary information from that form.
The Adjuster
Once your claim is filed, the insurance company will assign an adjuster. They will thoroughly investigate the case. Be cooperative, but don’t agree with anything you aren’t comfortable with.
The insurance company has ten working days to acknowledge the claim. The investigation must finish within 30 days of your filing the claim.
Getting Your Vehicle Repaired
You have the right to choose where you get your car repaired. Do your research to find a reputable auto body collision service. Ask how long they’ve been in business.
Find out what kind of warranty they offer for their work. Ask if they have experience working with insurance companies.
The insurance company may recommend a shop for you. Still do your research and don’t feel pressured to use that shop.
Keep in mind that if you choose a shop that quotes the repair higher than the appraised amount, that you’ll be responsible for the additional cost.
When a Vehicle Is a Total Loss
If the damage to repair your vehicle is more than the value, then the insurance company may deem your car a total loss. There are several methods for determining the replacement value of your vehicle. Be sure to ask your insurance agent what method your insurance company uses.
The method of calculation can mean the difference between repair and totaled. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the insurance company.
File Your Claim Today
If you’ve recently experienced an accident, then you need to know what to do next. Understanding the auto insurance claim process can help you seek compensation for your damages.
You should contact the insurance company as soon as possible after your accident. Once you’ve filed your claim, the insurance company adjuster will investigate and determine the value of returning your car to its original safe driving condition.
Request an estimate for your auto repair today. 