How to File an Insurance Claim

In the event of a claim, don't panic. Try to stay calm. Make sure that everyone involved is in no immediate danger.

If another person other than yourself is involved in the accident, make sure to get a copy of their drivers license and insurance cards. Write down all of their personal and insurance information. Also be sure to write down details of their vehicle and the location of the claim. It is also good idea to write down exactly what happened as soon as possible so you don't leave out any details.

If you come home and your house is on fire, you might not know what exactly happened. Just be sure to be safe and don't try to run into a burning building to save your most precious possessions. Nothing is more important than your life.

If you have a death in the family and you need to file a life insurance claim, the insurance company is going to need a copy of the death certificate. If your deceased family member's life insurance policy is less than 2 years old, there may be an investigation to make sure no foul play was involved. Life insurance policies normally have a 2 year contestability clause.

File a police report. Usually if a claim occurs on private property, like a shopping center parking lot, then the police will usually not get involved. If the officer will not file a report on site, go down to the police department and file an incident report at the station.

Most insurance companies have made it very simple to file a claim. The claims department is typically open 24 hours a day to report a claim. Be sure to know this number or have it somewhere you can find easily.

You may also contact your Insurance Agent for any advice. They will instruct you who to call and what to do. This is sometimes better because you have a relationship with this agent and they are there to help you in your time of need.