How Do I File An Auto Insurance Claim?

If you have auto insurance and a peril covered under the policy occurs, you need to file a claim to receive a settlement. However, it’s critical that you file your claim correctly because failure to do so can result in the claim being rejected by the insurer. Ellis Insurance Agency provides this guide on how to correctly file your car insurance claim in San Antonio, TX. 

Filing An Auto Insurance Claim: What You Need To Know

1. Call the 911 and Your Insurance Company

Depending on what has happened, the first thing you should do after an incident that is covered by your car insurance policy occurs is to call 911 and your insurance company. If it’s a criminal incident like theft or vandalism, your first call should be the police, then your insurer. If it’s an accident, call the police and emergency services so that anyone injured can receive timely medical attention, and then call your insurer. If the incident is damage to your vehicle due to a natural disaster, all you have to do is call the insurer.

2. Collect Evidence of the Incident

At Ellis Insurance Agency, we recommend that during your call with your insurer, you inquire what evidence they would need of the incident to assess your claim. In the case of an accident, vandalism, or damages by a natural disaster, use your smartphone to take detailed photos of the damage to your vehicle. Ensure that also capture wide-angle images of the location of the incident. In the case of theft, capture pictures of where the car was when it was stolen and get a police report.

3. Submit Your Claim With Evidence

Fill out the claim form from your insurer and submit it with the evidence you collected. Your auto insurer will review your claim, and if everything matches up with the terms of your policy, your claim will be approved.

Contact Us Today

Do you need auto insurance in San Antonio, TX and the surrounding areas? Call Ellis Insurance Agency today.

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is June 1st through November 30th. NOAA forecasters are predicting a 65% above-normal hurricane season this year. Learn more about hurricane preparedness and what to do in the event of a flood/natural disaster.

Hurricane Preparedness

A hurricane can be a devastating force of nature whether you live inland or on a coast. Being prepared can potentially help save you, your family, and your home from permanent damage. Read on to see what steps you can take to prepare for this hurricane season.

Evaluate Your Risk

Living on the coast is a higher probability to being hit by a hurricane, but inland residents are also at risk. Heavy rains, winds, and storm surges can cause wind damage and flooding. Once you evaluate your location and review historical hurricane information, you can decide whats best for you to prepare.

Preparing Your Family

You and your family’s safety is essential. Follow this guide to ensure you have a plan in place in the event of a hurricane

  • Develop an evacuation plan.
  • Prepare for power outages. Flashlights, electric lanterns, and gas-powered generators are a great place to start.
  • Build an emergency kit. Click here to find a list of basic emergency supplies to have on hand.
  • Be sure to secure important documents in a fire/water proof safe.

Preparing Your Home

While preparing your family and their safety is most important, it is good to start preparing your house before hurricane season starts. Here are some tips for preparing the exterior of your home.

  • Check window and door seals. It’s important that these are in good condition to prevent water damage inside your home.
  • Install storm shutters (if you’re in a high-risk area) or have boards available to put over your windows.
  • Trim tree branches around your roof. High winds can cause trees and branches to damage your home.
  • Clean your gutters to help water flow and prevent roof damage.
  • Make sure you garage door(s) are secure.
  • Have sandbags available to divert water from your home if you are in a high-risk area.

Now that your home and your family are prepared, be sure to check with your insurance agent to review your home policy. Most homeowners insurance will cover wind damage, but not flood damage as flood insurance is a separate policy. Be sure to ask what the best steps will be in the event that you need to file a claim after a hurricane. You can track current hurricanes and tropical storms by visiting the NOAA tracking site. Stay prepared and safe!