Page 10 - AAA Schuylkill County – AAA Now! – November/December 2017

INSURANCE SERVICES
Take the Stress Out of Insurance Claims
AAA Schuylkill County offers tips for making the claims process easier. Whether you experience a fender-bender in the parking lot, a fire that ravages your home or the theft of that fancy racing bicycle you got for your birthday, your insurance company should be there to help.
“As difficult as any loss is, understanding the steps to take after an incident will make things go more smoothly and efficiently,” said Susan Smyrl, AAA Schuylkill County spokesperson. “It makes sense to be prepared.”
TIPS TO SUPPORT A SUCCESSFUL INSURANCE CLAIMS PROCESS:
• Understand your coverage
Review both your auto and homeowners’ insurance policies every year. You don’t need to wait until your policy is renewing to make changes. Know your deductibles – what you’ll likely pay out of your own pocket – and what your policy covers.
• Report any incident. Reporting an accident or theft to the police will establish a formal, written record.
• Contact your insurance company
If you have an accident or your home is damaged, call your insurance company as soon as possible. You’ll want to be clear what they’ll need from you (and when) – and what you can count on from them.
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One other hazard to keep in mind as winter melts into spring: potholes. When snow and ice dissipate, roadways can begin to crumble. A separate AAA survey found that in 2016, nearly 30 million U.S. drivers experienced pothole damage significant enough to require repairs ranging from less than $250 to more than $1,000.
When pothole or rust damage occurs, it
is important to choose a reputable repair facility. The AAA Approved Auto Repair program includes nearly 7,000 facilities
that have met AAA’s high standards for certifications, technical training, cleanli- ness, insurance, inspections and customer satisfaction. AAA members are eligible for special benefits, such as priority service, a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty, discounts, free inspections, dispute resolution assistance and more. To locate an AAR shop in your area, visit AAA.com/AutoRepair.
• Record accident information
Keep careful track of all the details related to any accident. For an auto accident, get the driver’s license numbers of all people involved, as well as their insurance policy and contact information.
In addition, try to find a witness. You can use a smartphone to take photos of the accident scene and the automobiles involved, including close-ups of any damage and license plates of all cars involved.
• Document the loss
If the incident involves your possessions, make a list of what was stolen or damaged and, if damaged, take photos or videos. Having a home inventory of your most valuable possessions that includes the purchase price, as well as the approximate date and location of purchase, may help you in the claims process.
• Visit your doctor
If you’ve been injured in an accident, visit
your doctor as soon as possible, get medical documentation of your injuries, and make sure to submit all relevant medical reports to the insurance company when requested.
• Keep track
When dealing with medical providers and/or repair people, make notes about who you spoke with, when you talked to them and what was said.
• Make minor repairs
If your home has been damaged, take photos of
the damage before making any repairs. If need be, make minor repairs as soon as possible to keep your possessions safe from the elements and prevent further destruction.
• Keep receipts
Keep all receipts for services and supplies if you are doing home repairs after a fire or natural disaster. Keep track of any hotel bills and other living expenses you incur, if you have to move out because your house is being repaired or rebuilt.
To find out more about homeowners, condo or renters insurance, call your AAA agent at 570-622-4991 or 570-668-1003 to see what discounts you may be eligible for and what type of coverage you might need.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017