An auto claim is a sequenced paperwork and evidence job: scene documentation, timely notice, adjuster inspection, repair or total-loss settlement, then deductible and rental math. This guide is the first-time filing path. If you already have a denial letter, switch to How to handle a denied insurance claim.
Deadlines and fault rules vary by state and insurer. Follow your policy’s notice requirements and local crash-reporting thresholds.
Step-by-step from the scene
- Safety first: Move out of traffic if you can; call 911 for injuries or blocking hazards.
- Police report: Get the report number when your state or insurer expects one (injury, significant damage, hit-and-run).
- Exchange info: Other driver name, phone, insurer, policy number, plate, VIN if visible.
- Photos: Wide shots of both cars, close-ups of damage, skid marks, signals, and the other driver’s insurance card.
- Witnesses: Names and phones before everyone leaves.
- Do not admit fault at the curb; stick to facts with police and adjusters.
- Notify your insurer the same day when possible (app, 800 number, or agent). Late notice can complicate coverage.
If the other driver is uninsured or flees, ask about UM/UIM immediately (Uninsured motorist coverage).
What happens after you open the claim
| Stage | What you do | Typical timing (varies) |
|---|---|---|
| Claim number issued | Save the number; ask which coverage applies (collision, liability, comp, UM) | Same day |
| Adjuster contact | Share photos, report number, and injury status | 24–72 hours common |
| Inspection / estimate | Shop or drive-in; or mobile adjuster | A few days |
| Repair authorization | Approve estimate; ask about OEM vs aftermarket parts | Before teardown surprises |
| Rental / loss-of-use | Confirm daily cap and day limit if you bought rental reimbursement | Parallel to repairs |
| Payment | Deductible due; lienholder named if the car is financed | At repair end or total-loss close |
Know your collision deductible in cash before the shop starts (Auto insurance deductibles; Emergency fund basics). Repair-bill context: auto and repairs.
Worked example: at-fault parking-lot hit
Alex backs into a parked SUV. Damage to the other vehicle is estimated at $3,400; Alex’s bumper is $1,100. Alex files with their own insurer under collision + liability. Collision deductible is $500. Timeline:
- Day 0: Photos, exchange, claim opened in the Progressive (or peer) app.
- Day 1: Adjuster assigns a claim number; Alex drops the car at a preferred shop.
- Day 4: Supplement adds $280 for hidden clip damage.
- Day 9: Alex pays the $500 deductible; insurer pays the rest per the estimate; liability pays the other owner’s repair path.
Alex’s premium may rise at renewal. That is separate from whether the claim was handled correctly. Premium vs deductible tradeoffs: Premiums vs deductibles.
Total loss vs repair
If repairs approach or exceed the car’s actual cash value, the insurer may declare a total loss. You will need the title, lien payoff letter, and personal-item inventory from the cabin. Ask for the valuation sheet and comparable list in writing before you sign a release.
Checklist
- Photograph scene, damage, and insurance cards before tow trucks leave.
- Open the claim the same day; save the claim number.
- Send the police report number when available.
- Confirm deductible, rental limits, and shop network rules in writing.
- Keep every estimate, supplement, and rental invoice in one folder.
- If denied later, move to the denial/appeal guide (not this page).
Educational only. Not claim, legal, or insurance advice. Filing rules, fault, and timelines vary by state and insurer; follow your policy and a licensed adjuster or agent.