Many people have never had a claim and don't know what to do. Here is some helpful advise.

If it is a car accident:

• Stop and make sure you and the other party is not hurt.
• Always call the police to take a report and get the at fault parties insurance information.
• Take pictures.
• Then call the insurance company of the at fault party.
• You have the choice of taking your car to your mechanic or you can go to the insurance companies designated mechanic, you also need to get a rental car for the time being (that should be paid also by the insurance company).
• Finally, make sure the car is fixed to the exact previous condition prior to the accident, if it is not you should talk with the claims adjuster and find out what it needs to settle the difference.

If it is a home claim:

• Get everyone out of the house as quickly as possible and make sure no one is hurt.
• Then call 9-1-1.
• Take pictures then try to secure the home to keep any other damages from arising (put a tarp over holes, board up windows, etc).
• Report the claim to your insurance company.
• Get an estimate from at least 3 contractors.
• If the estimate from the contractors is far more than the amount the insurance company is willing to pay (less your deductible) you should try to come to a conclusion for the difference.
• Once you have settled on an amount, go ahead and have the contractor start the work. Remember to only pay half the cost prior to starting the work and the other half once the work is completed to your satisfaction.

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