If another driver or another person was involved in the accident, reporting the accident allows us to investigate what happened while the event is still fresh in your mind. A timely investigation can help us protect your interests if the other people involved claim that you’re responsible for their damages or injuries.

A deductible is the dollar amount you’ve agreed to pay out of your own pocket before your insurance policy kicks in and starts paying the bills.

Example:
If the total cost to repair the damage to your vehicle is $1,000 and you have a $500 deductible, you pay $500 of the $1,000.

It’s a good idea to report a claim even if you think the cost of your damages is lower than your deductible. Here’s why:

• Even if the damage appears to be minor, the repair costs may be more than you expect.
• If you have coverage for damage to your car, we can estimate how much repairs will cost. This estimate can be helpful when working with your repair shop.

The claims representative who inspects the damage will go over and verify the details with you. We will then request permission to move your car to a free storage location. Please remove any personal belongings and leave the keys in the car for us. A claims representative from our total loss unit will contact you in approximately three business days after the inspection to settle the claim. Have your loan information and/or title ready for this discussion; it will expedite the handling of your claim. At the time of settlement, we will request loan information or a copy of the title. If you have an outstanding loan, continue making your monthly payments until your lender advises otherwise.

In some situations, a total loss payment may be less than the total amount left on your loan or lease. Who is responsible for the difference is dependent upon the terms of the agreement between you and your lender. In most cases, you are responsible. Please consult with your lender regarding the remaining balance.

Loan and Lease Coverage is an add-on policy option available in some states. It is designed to protect you by covering this potential discrepancy between a total loss value and the amount left on your loan or lease. It will cover the difference between the unpaid amount due on your loan or lease and the actual cash value of your totaled car.