Understanding Your Auto Insurance Claim

Your Simple Guide to Auto Insurance Claims with Reliant Insurance

Getting into a car accident is stressful. Your heart pounds and you might feel shaken up. Besides checking if everyone is okay, you start worrying about the damage and what comes next. This often means dealing with an Auto Insurance Claim. What should you do? How do you make sure everything is handled right?

You’re not alone in feeling this way. While accidents are upsetting, making a car accident claim doesn’t have to be confusing. At Reliant Insurance, serving our neighbors in Edmonton and Sherwood Park, our experienced team is here to help you. We want to make the steps clear and understandable after an accident.

This guide will walk you through the Auto Insurance Claims process, step by step, so you know what to expect.

(Also, Check- https://reliantinsurance.ca/blog/4-reasons-to-consider-usage-based-car-insurance/)

First Steps Right After an Accident (Before You Call Us)

Before you start the official Auto Insurance Claims, take these essential steps at the accident scene, but only if it’s safe:

1. Check for Injuries: See if you, your passengers, or anyone else is hurt. Call 911 right away if someone needs medical help.
2. Move if Safe: If you can safely drive the cars, move them off the road to avoid more accidents. Turn on your hazard lights.
3. Call the Police: It’s usually a good idea to call the police. They can help manage the scene and create an official report. This report is often beneficial for your claim, especially in areas like Edmonton and Sherwood Park, where traffic incidents are documented.
4. Swap Information: Get these details from the other driver(s):
   • Full Name and Phone Number
   • Address
   • Driver’s License Number
   • Insurance Company and Policy Number (Ask to see the insurance card)
   • License Plate Number
   • Car Make, Model, and Color
5. Take Pictures: Use your phone! Take photos of:
   • Damage to all cars involved.
   • License plates.
   • The whole scene (roads, signs, weather).
   • Any visible injuries (be respectful).
6. Find Witnesses: Did anyone see the accident? Ask for their name and phone number. What they saw can be important.
7. Be Careful What You Say: Just state the facts. Don’t guess who caused the accident or say it was your fault. Let the insurance experts figure that out.

Starting Your Auto Insurance Claim with Reliant Insurance

Once the scene is safe, the next step is to report the accident to us at Reliant Insurance as soon as possible. Calling quickly helps get your Auto Insurance Claim started faster. Many policies require you to report within a specific time.

When you call your Reliant Insurance broker, try to have this information ready:

• Your Reliant Insurance policy number.
• Details about the other driver(s) and their insurance.
• The police report number, if you have one.

After you report the Auto Insurance Claim, we’ll assign a claims adjuster to your case. This person works for the insurance company and will investigate what happened. They will call you to get more details, like:

• When and where the accident occurred.
• Your story of what happened.
• Information about passengers or witnesses.
• Details about the cars involved.
• Any injuries to anyone involved.
• A description of the damage.

Be honest and give as much detail as you can. If people were injured, a special adjuster might handle just the injury parts of the claim. This is a regular part of handling a vehicle insurance settlement.

Know Your Policy: How Reliant Insurance Protects You

It helps to understand your insurance policy before you need it. Your Reliant Insurance broker in Edmonton or Sherwood Park can walk you through your coverage anytime. Knowing what’s included affects your Auto Insurance Claim. Look for:

• Liability: Covers costs if you injure someone or damage their property.
• Collision: Covers damage to your car from an accident, no matter who was at fault (you pay your deductible).
• Comprehensive: Covers damage from things other than a collision, like theft, fire, or hitting an animal (you pay your deductible).
• Deductible: The amount you pay first when you make a collision or comprehensive claim. A higher deductible usually means a lower insurance price but also more cost if you have a claim.
• Extras: Rental car coverage can be beneficial while your car is fixed.

Knowing these details helps you understand the costs of filing an insurance claim for car damage.

Checking the Damage: The Adjuster’s Job

The claims adjuster needs to figure out how much to fix your car will cost. They might:

• We ask that you go to an approved inspection site.
• Send an appraiser to look at your car (at home, work, or the repair shop).
• It lets you send photos of the damage through an app.
• Have you visited a trusted repair shop that works with the insurance company? Reliant Insurance can offer insights into reputable Edmonton and Sherwood Park shops.

The appraiser writes up a detailed estimate for repairs. You should get a copy. Could you read it carefully?

Sometimes, the repair cost is more than the car is worth. This is called a “total loss” or “write-off.” If this happens, the adjuster will explain the total loss of car insurance settlement. They figure out your car’s value right before the accident (Actual Cash Value or ACV) and offer you that amount minus your deductible.

Possible Bumps in the Auto Insurance Claim Road

Most claims go smoothly, but sometimes things can slow down:

• Figuring Out Fault: If drivers disagree on who caused the accident, the adjuster needs time to investigate using reports and witness info.
• Delays: Things can take longer if adjusters are busy, the accident is complicated, or they’re waiting for police reports. Keep in touch with your adjuster.
• Repair Costs: Your shop might find more damage once they start work. They can ask the insurance company for approval for the extra costs.
• Uninsured Drivers: If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, your own policy’s Uninsured Motorist coverage (if you have it) is significant. Your Reliant Insurance broker can confirm if you have this coverage.

Knowing about these possibilities helps you stay patient during the car insurance claim process.

Getting Your Car Fixed: Back on the Edmonton & Sherwood Park Roads

If your car can be repaired, you usually get to choose the repair shop. Your insurance company might suggest shops they work with often. Using one of these “preferred” shops can sometimes make things easier (like billing), but the choice is yours. Reliant Insurance knows that using a trusted local mechanic in Edmonton or Sherwood Park is essential to many drivers.

Tell your adjuster which shops you choose. The shop will use the insurance estimate. If they can find more damage, they’ll contact the insurer.

If your auto insurance policy includes rental car coverage, your adjuster can help you get a rental while your car is in the shop. Check your policy for limits on cost per day and total days covered.

Finishing Up: Closing Your Auto Insurance Claim

Once the repairs are done and you’re happy with or agree to a total loss settlement, the insurance company will finish the Auto Insurance Claim.

This usually involves:

• Final Payments: The insurer pays the shop or pays you. You’ll need to pay your deductible directly to the shop.
• Paperwork: You might sign forms saying the claim is settled.
• Claim Closed: You’ll get a notice that your Auto Insurance Claim is officially closed.

Keep copies of everything related to your claim: estimates, bills, letters, and emails.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Edmonton & Sherwood Park Drivers

Q: How long does an Auto Insurance Claim take with Reliant Insurance?
A: It varies. Simple claims might take a week or two. If there are injuries or disagreements about fault, it could take longer. Reporting a car accident to insurance quickly is the best way to speed things up. Your Reliant Insurance team works hard to process claims efficiently.

Q: Will my insurance rates go up after a claim?
A: Maybe. It often depends on who was at fault and your driving history. An accident where you were at fault is more likely to affect your rate. Ask your Reliant Insurance broker about accident forgiveness options.

Q: What if my car is a total loss?
A: Your insurer determines the car’s value (ACV) just before the crash. They’ll offer you that amount minus your deductible. You sign the title to them, and they usually take the damaged car.

Q: Can I choose my repair shop in Edmonton or Sherwood Park?
A: Yes, you generally have the right to choose. Reliant Insurance can list preferred local shops known for good work, but the final decision is yours.

Q: What if I disagree with the adjuster about fault or the settlement?
A: Talk to your Reliant Insurance adjuster first and explain why. Provide any proof you have. If you still disagree, you can ask to speak to a manager. You can also contact Alberta’s Superintendent of Insurance for guidance on your Auto Insurance Claim.

Drive Confidently with Reliant Insurance

Accidents happen, but dealing with the Auto Insurance Claims doesn’t have to add to your stress. You can handle the process more easily by following these steps and knowing what to expect. Remember to:

• Act safely at the scene.
• Report the claim quickly to Reliant Insurance.
• Understand your policy (ask your broker!).
• Communicate with your adjuster.
• Keep good records.

Call your Reliant Insurance team if you’re in Edmonton or Sherwood Park and have an accident. We’re here to help you through the car accident claim process, answer your questions, and ensure you get the support you need. Drive safely, knowing Reliant Insurance is here for you. Your Simple Guide to Auto Insurance Claims with Reliant Insurance

 

Getting into a car accident is stressful. Your heart pounds and you might feel shaken up. Besides checking if everyone is okay, you start worrying about the damage and what comes next. This often means dealing with an Auto Insurance Claim. What should you do? How do you make sure everything is handled right?

You’re not alone in feeling this way. While accidents are upsetting, the process of making a car accident claim doesn’t have to be confusing. At Reliant Insurance, serving our neighbors in Edmonton and Sherwood Park, our experienced team is here to help you. We want to make the steps clear and understandable after an accident.

This guide will walk you through the Auto Insurance Claim process, step by step, so you know what to expect.

(Also, Check- https://reliantinsurance.ca/blog/4-reasons-to-consider-usage-based-car-insurance/)

 

First Steps Right After an Accident (Before You Call Us)

 

Before you start the official Auto Insurance Claim, take these essential steps at the accident scene, but only if it’s safe:

1. Check for Injuries: See if you, your passengers, or anyone else is hurt. Call 911 right away if someone needs medical help.
2. Move if Safe: If you can safely drive the cars, move them off the road to avoid more accidents. Turn on your hazard lights.
3. Call the Police: It’s usually a good idea to call the police. They can help manage the scene and create an official report. This report is often beneficial for your claim, especially in areas like Edmonton and Sherwood Park, where traffic incidents are documented.
4. Swap Information: Get these details from the other driver(s):
   • Full Name and Phone Number
   • Address
   • Driver’s License Number
   • Insurance Company and Policy Number (Ask to see the insurance card)
   • License Plate Number
   • Car Make, Model, and Color
5. Take Pictures: Use your phone! Take photos of:
   • Damage to all cars involved.
   • License plates.

• The entire setting (including roads, signage, and weather conditions).  
  • Any apparent injuries (approach with sensitivity).

1. Find Witnesses: Did anyone see the accident? Ask for their name and phone number. What they saw can be important.
2. Be Careful What You Say: Just state the facts. Don’t guess who caused the accident or say it was your fault. Let the insurance experts figure that out.

 

Starting Your Auto Insurance Claim with Reliant Insurance

 

Once the scene is safe, the next step is to report the accident to us at Reliant Insurance as soon as possible. Calling quickly helps get your Auto Insurance Claim started faster. Many policies require you to report within a certain time.

When you call your Reliant Insurance broker, try to have this information ready:

• Your Reliant Insurance policy number.
• Details about the other driver(s) and their insurance.
• The police report number, if you have one.

After you report the Auto Insurance Claim, we’ll assign a claims adjuster to your case. This person works for the insurance company and will investigate what happened. They will call you to get more details, like:

• When and where the accident occurred.
• Your story of what happened.
• Information about passengers or witnesses.
• Details about the cars involved.
• Any injuries to anyone involved.
• A description of the damage.

Be honest and give as much detail as you can. If people were injured, a special adjuster might handle just the injury parts of the claim. This is a regular part of handling a vehicle insurance settlement.

 

Know Your Policy: How Reliant Insurance Protects You

 

It really helps to understand your insurance policy before you need it. Your Reliant Insurance broker in Edmonton or Sherwood Park can walk you through your coverage anytime. Knowing what’s included affects your Auto Insurance Claim. Look for:

• Liability coverage: This helps pay for expenses if you cause injury to someone or damage their property.
• Collision: Covers damage to your car from an accident, no matter who is at fault (you pay your deductible).
• Comprehensive: Covers damage from things other than a collision, like theft, fire, or hitting an animal (you pay your deductible).
• Deductible: The amount you pay first when you make a collision or comprehensive claim. A higher deductible usually means a lower insurance price but also more cost if you have a claim.
• Extras: Rental car coverage can be beneficial while your car is fixed.

Knowing these details helps you understand the costs of filing an insurance claim for car damage.

 

Checking the Damage: The Adjuster’s Job

 

The claims adjuster needs to figure out how much to fix your car will cost. They might:

• We ask that you go to an approved inspection site.
• Send an appraiser to look at your car (at home, work, or the repair shop).
• It lets you send photos of the damage through an app.
• Have you visited a trusted repair shop that works with the insurance company? Reliant Insurance can offer insights into reputable Edmonton and Sherwood Park shops.

The appraiser prepares a detailed estimate for repairs. You should receive a copy. Please read it carefully.

Sometimes, the repair cost is more than the car is worth. This is called a “total loss” or “write-off.” If this happens, the adjuster will explain the total loss of car insurance settlement. They determine your car’s value right before the accident (Actual Cash Value or ACV) and offer that amount minus your deductible.

 

Possible Bumps in the Auto Insurance Claim Road

 

Most claims go smoothly, but sometimes things can slow down:

• Figuring Out Fault: If drivers disagree on who caused the accident, the adjuster needs time to investigate using reports and witness info.
• Delays: Things can take longer if adjusters are busy, the accident is complicated, or they’re waiting for police reports. Keep in touch with your adjuster.
• Repair Costs: Your shop might find more damage once they start work. They can ask the insurance company for approval for the extra costs.
• Uninsured Drivers: If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, your own policy’s Uninsured Motorist coverage (if you have it) is essential. Your Reliant Insurance broker can confirm if you have this coverage.

Knowing about these possibilities helps you stay patient during the car insurance claim process.

 

Getting Your Car Fixed: Back on the Edmonton & Sherwood Park Roads

 

If your car can be repaired, you usually get to choose the repair shop. Your insurance company might suggest shops they work with often. Using one of these “preferred” shops can sometimes make things easier (like billing), but the choice is yours. Reliant Insurance knows that using a trusted local mechanic in Edmonton or Sherwood Park is essential to many drivers.

Tell your adjuster which shops you choose. The shop will use the insurance estimate. If they can find more damage, they’ll contact the insurer.

Suppose your auto insurance policy includes rental car coverage. In that case, your adjuster can help you get a rental while your car is in the shop. Check your policy for limits on cost per day and total days covered.

 

Finishing Up: Closing Your Auto Insurance Claim

 

Once the repairs are done and you’re happy with or agree to a total loss settlement, the insurance company will finish the Auto Insurance Claim.

This usually involves:

• Final Payments: The insurer pays the shop or pays you. You’ll need to pay your deductible directly to the shop.
• Paperwork: You might sign forms saying the claim is settled.
• Claim Closed: You’ll notice that your Auto Insurance Claim is officially closed.

Keep copies of everything related to your claim: estimates, bills, letters, and emails.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Edmonton & Sherwood Park Drivers

 

1. How long does an Auto Insurance Claim take with Reliant Insurance? It varies. Simple claims might take a week or two. If there are injuries or disagreements about fault, it could take longer. Reporting a car accident to insurance quickly is the best way to speed things up. Your Reliant Insurance team works hard to process claims efficiently.
2. Will my insurance rates go up after a claim? Maybe. It often depends on who was at fault and your driving history. An accident where you were at fault is more likely to affect your rate. Ask your Reliant Insurance broker about accident forgiveness options.
3. What if my car is a total loss? Your insurer determines the car’s value (ACV) just before the crash. They’ll offer you that amount minus your deductible. You sign the title to them, and they usually take the damaged car.
4. Can I choose my repair shop in Edmonton or Sherwood Park? Yes, you generally have the right to choose. Reliant Insurance can list preferred local shops known for good work, but the final decision is yours.
5. What if I disagree with the adjuster about fault or the settlement? Talk to your Reliant Insurance adjuster first and explain why. Provide any proof you have. If you still disagree, you can ask to speak to a manager. You can also contact Alberta’s Superintendent of Insurance for guidance on your Auto Insurance Claim.

 

Conclusion: Drive Confidently with Reliant Insurance

 

Accidents happen, but dealing with the Auto Insurance Claim doesn’t have to add to your stress. You can handle the process more easily by following these steps and knowing what to expect. Remember to:

• Act safely at the scene.
• Report the claim quickly to Reliant Insurance.
• Understand your policy (ask your broker!).
• Communicate with your adjuster.
• Keep good records.

Call your Reliant Insurance team if you’re in Edmonton or Sherwood Park and have an accident. We’re here to help you through the car accident claim process, answer your questions, and ensure you get the support you need. Drive safely, knowing Reliant Insurance is here for you.