How to File a Claim After Hitting Your Own Car?
2 Answers
Call your insurance company immediately. If the accident involves injuries, you also need to notify the traffic police department to come to the scene for liability determination. The vehicle owner should provide their insurance documents, driver's license, vehicle registration certificate, and ID card. The insurance adjuster will visit the repair shop or 4S store to assess the damage and verify the repair costs of the parts.
Last week, I accidentally hit a roadside tree while driving and panicked a bit at the time. After getting out of the car, I first checked if I or anyone around was injured. Once safety was ensured, I immediately turned on the hazard lights and set up the warning triangle. Then, I quickly took photos with my phone, making sure to capture clear images of the damaged parts of the vehicle, the scene environment, and road conditions. Next, I called the insurance company's customer service. They asked about the time and location of the accident, what I hit, and the extent of the damage, and recorded my policy number and ID information. After that, I waited for them to send an adjuster to inspect the scene and provide a detailed written report. When it came to repairs, I chose one of their partnered repair shops, which made the insurance settlement very convenient. The key to the entire claims process is not to delay—contacting them within 24 hours is the safest bet. Although the premium might increase afterward, ensuring safety is the most important thing.
