How to File an Auto Insurance Claim: What to Expect
Knowing how the claims process works makes it less stressful and helps you avoid delays.
Quick checklist
- A first-party claim is with your own insurer; a third-party claim is with the other driver’s insurer.
- An adjuster investigates the accident, decides fault under your state’s rules and estimates the damage.
- Your deductible applies to collision and comprehensive claims on your own policy.
- In many states, you can choose your own repair shop.
- Keep a claim file with photos, estimates, receipts and notes of every conversation.
Once you’ve reported an accident, your insurer opens a claim. Here’s how the process usually works and how to keep it on track.
Which insurer handles it
- First-party claim: you claim under your own policy, for example for collision damage. Your deductible applies.
- Third-party claim: you claim against the other driver’s liability insurance if they caused the accident. If they accept fault, you shouldn’t pay a deductible.
Sometimes it’s faster to claim through your own insurer, which can later try to recover costs from the other driver’s insurer, including your deductible.
The adjuster’s role
An adjuster will:
- Review the facts: your statement, photos, the police report and witness accounts.
- Determine fault under your state’s rules.
- Inspect the damage, in person, at a shop or through photos you upload.
- Prepare an estimate of repair costs.
Repairs
In many states, you have the right to choose your repair shop, even if the insurer recommends one. The shop may find more damage once work begins; it will send a supplement to the insurer for approval.
Driver tip
Keep a simple claim file: your claim number, the adjuster’s name and contact details, photos, estimates, receipts and a short note of every call, with the date.
Payment and deductibles
The insurer typically pays the shop directly or pays you, minus your deductible on first-party claims. If you have a loan on the car, the payment may include the lender. If the car isn’t worth repairing, see our guide to total losses.
Keep things moving
- Respond promptly to requests for information.
- Follow up in writing if you haven’t heard back.
- Know your rights: state insurance departments set rules on how quickly insurers must respond, and they handle complaints.
Not sure what to do at the scene? Start with our after-an-accident checklist.
Driver questions
Should I file a claim for minor damage?
If the damage is close to your deductible, paying yourself may make sense. But you should still tell your insurer about the accident, especially if another driver was involved.
Will a claim raise my premium?
An at-fault claim often affects your rates at renewal. Claims where you weren’t at fault usually have less impact, though rules vary by insurer and state.
What if I disagree with the settlement offer?
Ask for the adjuster’s reasoning in writing, provide your own estimates or evidence, and ask about the appeal process. Your state’s insurance department can help if you’re stuck.
Does my policy pay for a rental car?
Only if you have rental reimbursement coverage, or if the other driver’s insurer accepts liability and pays for one.
Car insurance rules vary by state and by policy. This guide is general information, not legal or insurance advice; check your policy and your state insurance department for details.