Published June 26, 2024
After a collision, the repair itself is often simpler than the paperwork. Knowing what usually happens, and in what order, takes much of the stress out of a claim. Every insurer and policy is a little different, so treat this as a general guide and check the details with your own insurer.
1. At the scene
- Make sure everyone is safe and move out of traffic if you can.
- Call the police if anyone is hurt or the cars cannot be driven, and ask for the report number.
- Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance details and plate numbers with the other driver.
- Photograph both cars, the plates, the road and anything that shows what happened.
2. Open the claim
Call your insurer or use their app, and have your policy number, the report number and your photos ready. If the other driver was at fault, you can also file with their insurer. You will get a claim number. Keep it handy, because the shop will need it too.
3. The damage estimate
The insurer will ask for photos, send an adjuster, or have you take the car to a shop for an estimate. That first estimate covers the damage that can be seen from outside. In many cases you can choose where your car is repaired; your policy and your insurer can tell you how that works for you.
4. Deductibles
If you claim on your own collision or comprehensive coverage, you pay the deductible and the insurer pays the rest of the approved repair. If the other driver’s insurer accepts fault, you usually do not pay a deductible on their claim.
5. Supplements
Once the damaged parts are removed, the shop often finds more damage behind them. The shop documents it and sends the insurer a supplement, a request to approve the additional work. This is a normal part of most collision claims, and it can add a few days while the insurer reviews it.
6. Picking up your car
- Look over the repaired area in daylight: color match, panel gaps and trim.
- Check that lights, sensors and any warning messages work as before.
- Ask for a copy of the final invoice for your records.
Questions worth asking your insurer
- Does my policy include rental car coverage, and for how long?
- What type of parts does my policy pay for?
- How are supplements approved, and how long does that usually take?
- Who pays the shop: the insurer directly, or me with a check from the insurer?
Start with photos
Whether or not you file a claim, a repair estimate helps you decide what to do. Send us photos of the damage and we will follow up. Read about our collision repair process, or contact us with questions.
