Should i claim insurance?

[DMZ]

Originally Posted by caineroad

Guys

I never claim insurance before, so I am not sure how that works.

I was thinking I just report it to the insurance company, they acknowledge. Then bring in the repair receipt and maybe snap a few pictures of the damage then they will honour you whatever after your deductible. How would they know if it is a recent damage or a year back honestly?

Right now I think I can claim the windshield because it was not at-fault, i was on highway and a small rock hit my windshield. But the rest I am not sure hence I am asking on this forum to see what's the best thing to do, since insurance is insurance at the end of the day I can make claims on any damage to the car but how to do it right, that is the question:)

The windshield they will usually pay, no questions asked.

Other damage will be assigned to a claim adjuster, who contracts his services to different insurance companies. He will come out and take a look at the damage and research the cost. If the damaged was cause by an accident, that meaning while the vehicle was moving, then he will need to have a accident report. Hopefully, you filed one with your company after the damage was incurred. If that was not done, I am not sure where it goes from there.

He needs that report so he can make a accurate assessment of the damage you are claiming. It helps prevent fraudulent claims. Good claim adjusters are good at spotting things that do not seem make sense. In other words, it is very hard to try and get over on them, after all they assess damaged autos for a living.

After the adjuster looks at the auto, he will contact you within a week or so with a settlement. If you do not agree with his offer, there is some room to negotiate, but not much.