How to Make a Claim: Step-by-Step
Accidents happen, but what if you have a car accident and need to make a claim? We understand it can seem a bit overwhelming. Stay calm – Carrot Insurance Services have got you covered. Here is our guide on what to do and how to make a claim.
When You Take Out Your Policy
Check Your Statement of Fact: Run through your policy details and ensure we have accurate information about:
- You
- Any named drivers
- Your vehicle specifications
Your policy is based on the information you’ve provided, and any errors could render your policy void when making a claim.
Know Your Responsibilities: When you take out insurance, it’s a contract. We agree to pay for valid claims, and you agree to report any accidents. Teamwork!
Save Our Claim Number: Store our claim number 01732 747 100 in your phone under “A Carrot” so it’s easy to find in an emergency
Understand Your Cover: In the UK, there are three main levels of car insurance:
- Third-Party Only: Covers damage to others’ property and injuries, but not your vehicle.
- Third-Party, Fire, and Theft: Adds coverage for your vehicle if it’s stolen or damaged by fire.
- Comprehensive: Covers third-party damage, fire, theft, and any damage to your vehicle, even if you’re at fault.
Understand Your Excesses: Familiarise yourself with your policy and any excesses. Your policy includes both compulsory and voluntary excesses. Voluntary excesses can reduce your insurance cost but make sure you can afford them.
What are Insurance Excesses?
An insurance excess is the amount you pay towards a claim. There are two types:
Compulsory Excess: Set by your insurer, based on factors like age, driving experience, and vehicle type.
Voluntary Excess: This amount is chosen by you when you take out the policy, it may reduce your premium, but will increase your out-of-pocket cost if you claim. Be aware the total excess is paid at the time of the claim so please ensure it is affordable.
Example: With a £150 compulsory and £200 voluntary excess, you’d pay £350 in the event of a claim.
When You Pay: At the time of the claim—either deducted from your payout or paid to the repairer. You may be refunded if the accident wasn’t your fault.
If You Have an Accident: What to Do Next
- Stay Calm & Safe: Ensure you and your passengers are safe. Keep everyone calm and when safe to do so:
- Check for Injuries: Assess everyone and call emergency services if needed.
- Move to Safety: If safe, move the vehicle to the side of the road and turn on hazard lights and have all passengers exit the vehicle.
- Call for Help: Report the incident to the police and avoid moving injured passengers unless there is immediate danger.
- Don’t Admit Fault at the Scene: Admitting fault can impact your insurance claim. Carrot Insurance Services will manage the determination of blame. Your responsibility is to gather details at the scene and ensure everyone involved is safe and unharmed.
- Reporting the Accident: If it is safe to do so, call us immediately. We are available day or night to assist and gather information. If you can’t call us at the scene, make it a priority to report the accident as soon as possible.
- Gather Information: Before you report the incident to the police, gather contact details from everyone involved, including any witnesses willing to share their version of the incident.
- We need full names, addresses, phone numbers, and car registrations, even for minor incidents.
- Be respectful – don’t pressure anyone for information, as it can be aggressive and upsetting. Your insurer will handle the rest with the details you provide.
- Take Details & Photos: Record the number of people in the cars involved and if anyone is injured. Also, if possible, take pictures of the cars and the accident scene.
- Gather Your Things: Remember to remove all personal items from your car as soon as it’s practical and before the car is recovered.
Useful Info to Share After a Crash
If you’re in a crash, share these details but keep it simple to avoid fraud:
- Car registration
- Your name, and phone number
- Insurance Policy Number and Company
Only give out your details if requested. Don’t give out too much personal info. Stay safe and be aware of fraudsters!
During the Claim: What to Expect
- Keep an eye on your email: We will provide you with necessary information to help settle the claim, repair your car, and get you back on the road faster.
- Send Documents Promptly: Forward any communication from the other party’s insurer or any documents we request as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions After an Accident
- What should I avoid doing immediately after an accident?
Don’t dash off! Stay put until it’s safe and you’ve got all the information you’ll need. You must answer police and medical questions but avoid admitting fault or giving opinions on the accident. These could be used in court.
- Should I talk to the other party’s insurer?
Nope! Let us handle all chats with the other party’s insurer.
- What information should I gather at the scene?
Get full names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details, and car registrations.
- What documents should I save?
Don’t toss anything! Keep all accident-related documents, like police reports and medical records.
- How do I start the claims process?
Call us right after the accident: dial 0173 274 7100 right after the accident. We’ll guide you through it.
- Do I need to pay my excess straight away?
Yes, your excess is usually paid at the time of repair or deducted from your payout. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you may be reimbursed later.
- What information do I need to provide when making a claim?
Date, time, location, road and weather conditions are optional but always helpful, what happened, and contact info of everyone involved.
- How long does the claims process take?
Simple claims may take a few days, while complex ones can take weeks, months or years depending on factors like liability disputes or complicated injuries. We’ll endeavour to process your claim as quickly as possible and keep you updated with any developments.
- Will my insurance premium increase after making a claim?
This is a possibility: it depends on the nature of the claim and your policy. We’ll discuss this and any changes to your payments with you at renewal.
- Can I use my own mechanic for repairs?
Stick with our network: use our approved, preferred repairers for quality and convenience. If you prefer another, please check with us first.
Stay Calm – Carrot Insurance Services Has Got You Covered
Great, now you are equipped just in case the worst happens! The most important takeaway is to follow the proper steps after an accident, no matter how big or small. This includes not admitting fault at the scene, exchanging details with all parties involved, and promptly reporting the incident to your insurer and the police.
As always, drive safe!
Did you find this content useful? If so, be sure to check out our other articles “Think Twice – The Dangers of Drink & Drug Driving” and “Navigating different Roads”.