{"id":10560,"date":"2025-04-29T13:43:57","date_gmt":"2025-04-29T13:43:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/?p=10560"},"modified":"2025-04-29T13:43:58","modified_gmt":"2025-04-29T13:43:58","slug":"claim-step-by-step","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/veloxinsurance.com\/blog\/claim-step-by-step\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Step-By-Step Guide to Filing a Car Insurance Claim\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Most Georgians rely on their cars daily, making any accident disruptive. In the chaos after an accident, you may be dealing with injuries and the stress of figuring out how your car insurance<\/a> will assist with repairs. Whether it’s a collision that leaves your car in pieces or a storm that drops a tree on your vehicle, it\u2019s good to know how to file a car insurance claim. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Car accidents are unexpected and overwhelming, but getting back on track may be easier than you think. Our guide to filing an insurance claim explains what to do at the scene, how to navigate the claims process, and tips for handling special situations. With this information, you\u2019ll be prepared to ensure a smooth process and enjoy your fully restored vehicle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Should You Understand the Auto Insurance Claims Process? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As a responsible car owner, you hope your insurance is something you\u2019ll never have to use. Yet, when you need it, knowing how to file a car insurance claim will reduce your stress levels by keeping you informed and ensuring you do everything you can to get fair compensation.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Getting a claim approved requires quite a bit of evidence about the damage that occurred and everyone who was involved. Knowing what to expect will allow you to preserve evidence and help you avoid potential risks that can lead to a denial. Contacting your insurance company as soon as possible is your best bet for getting help with the entire process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the Scene: What Immediate Steps Should You Take? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019re in a fender bender or a major crash, an accident scene is chaotic. Safety is the top priority, so ensure all injuries are addressed. Once that\u2019s done, gathering evidence becomes vital. Following a step-by-step car insurance claim process can help you stay calm and document everything correctly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Assess<\/strong> injuries:<\/strong> The first order of business following any accident is to ensure safety and prompt attention for injuries. Are you or your passengers injured? Call for emergency assistance if anyone in your car is hurt.  <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Check on the occupants of the other vehicle to see if they need medical attention. Once medical needs are taken care of, secure the scene by moving out of the traffic flow, if possible.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    1. Call the police: <\/strong>While Georgia law doesn\u2019t require you to call the police if nobody\u2019s hurt or property damage is less than $500, it\u2019s always a good idea to alert law enforcement. A police report can be valuable information to submit with your auto insurance claim, and officers can help you secure the scene.  <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      If natural causes damaged your car or you hit a deer or other animal, you may not be required to file a police report. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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      1. Collect Evidence: <\/strong>Take photos of your car and any others involved in the accident. Also, include pictures of damaged property and the general area of the accident. Write down the names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information of everyone involved in the wreck. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        If police are present, ask for a copy of the police report. When possible, take down the contact information of any witnesses at the scene. If time is available, it\u2019s a good idea to write a summary of the accident while the details are fresh in your mind.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Post Accident Action: What Do You Do Next? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        When you\u2019re free to leave the accident scene, it\u2019s time to contact your insurance company if you plan to file a claim with them. Although Georgia is an at-fault state<\/a>, your insurer will need to know the details about your vehicle\u2019s damage in the event you need to file a claim.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Whether you use an app or call your insurer, make sure you: <\/p>\n\n\n\n