If you need to make a claim then this simple guide can help you. Millions of pounds are paid out each year for drivers in accidents or who have had their car damaged or stolen.
- Inform your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Write down an account of what happened which you can later refer back to when writing up your claim.
- If your claim is in relation to a crime such as theft or arson, inform the police as well. Your car insurance company will need to know an incident number if you are reporting a crime as well.
- Make sure you ask your insurer what you need to do next so you can provide evidence about your claim. Make sure your story is consistent – you don’t want to risk the insurance company thinking you’re lying.
- Keep all your documents relevant to the claim in a safe place and make sure you are available to be contacted by your insurance company.
- Keep copies of receipts for damages and any correspondence which affects your claim. When you speak to someone on the phone make sure you get their name and telephone extension for your records.
- Don’t take your car in for repairs until you have sorted everything out. Your car insurance company is likely to recommend a garage to you and it is safer for you if you take it there. Don’t make any repairs to your car until your car insurance company has agreed to pay for it.