How To Make An Auto Claim
Even the safest drivers may be involved in an auto accident. Knowledge of what to do after the accident can make the experience less frightening and decrease the chance of unnecessary delays and complications. What follows is a list of items that we hope will help.
At the accident scene...
1. Stop the car and move it to a safe position on the road.
2. Check for injuries. Your life and health are more important than possible damage to your auto.
3. Call the police no matter how minor the incident. If there are injuries the police will contact the appropriate medical assistance.
4. When the authorities arrive cooperate with them completely. Find out where to obtain a copy of the accident report the police will file. Also, take down the case number and the name and badge numbers of the police and emergency personnel.
5. Write down the names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses and those involved in the accident. Take down the license plate numbers, insurance information, and the makes and models of all vehicles. Make note of damages to any vehicle involved in the accident. Also include details regarding circumstances of the accident such as weather and road condition.
How to report a claim...
1. Call Glen Wiggers Insurance Service at (201) 384 3330. Supply the representative with as much information as you can. At a minimum, they will need your company Policy number, and details of the accident.
2. Once initial contact has been made we will require a Police Report and an Accord Automobile Loss Notice (requires Acrobat PDF Viewer). The agent or the insured can supply this. Your cooperation is both essential and required in order for us to bring your claim to its final resolution. The company will represent you if a claim is brought against you and attempt to resolve that claim or defend you if you are sued according to the terms and conditions of the policy. Any copies of legal or medical papers that you receive in connection with your loss should be sent as you receive them. If contacted by an attorney for another party refer them to your company representative.
3. Keep records of your expenses and paperwork. Expenses you incur may be reimbursed under your policy. Make sure you keep copies or originals of all paperwork. You may need to refer to these in the future.
What happens after the claim is reported...
1. Once we receive the items mentioned above we immediately assign an appraiser to assess the damage to your car. We will also send acknowledgement to your attention that a claim has been initiated. This acknowledgement contains some very important information, such as your claim number and claims representative. It is important to have this information handy when calling with any questions regarding your claim.
2. The appraiser will then send his assessment to company overnight. At that point we process a check and send it to you with a copy of the appraisal. If you do not have a body shop to repair your car we can recommend the company Recommended Auto Shop. If your car cannot be fixed we will pay you the cash value of the vehicle as determined by the procedures approved by the New Jersey Department of Insurance.
Good communications and cooperation are essential to getting your claim resolved as quickly and fairly as possible. Our representatives are there to explain the process every step of the way.