Frequently Asked Questions About Insurance – FAQ
- How do I file a claim?
- What happens after I file a claim?
- Will filing a claim make my premium increase or result in my policy being canceled?
- What is my policy deductible and what amount should I choose?
- Are natural disasters such as flood, earthquakes and hurricanes covered under my homeowner policy?
- What if another driver hits my car?
A: You can file a claim several ways. The best way is to contact the insurance company directly. For contact information by carrier, click here. You can also call us at 952-920-1931
Q: What happens after I file a claim?
A: The claim process has a few variations but these are the essential steps once the claim has been submitted to the insurance company:
- You will be contacted by an insurance company adjustor to gather detailed information about your claim.
- Often, someone from the insurance company will inspect your auto or property for damage or will ask you to provide evidence of value and ownership for loss to property that is not a vehicle or real property.
- An estimate is prepared.
- A check is delivered.
- Sometimes differences in actual and estimated damages arise, especially after repair work has been undertaken. Every attempt is made to resolve these differences and sometimes a supplemental check is prepared.
It is the responsibility of the insurance company to settle and pay your claim and the responsibility of our agency to make sure that is done as quickly and fairly as possible with a minimum of uncertainty and bother for you. We monitor claim progress closely and communicate with you throughout to make sure you are satisfied.
Q: Will filing a claim make my premium increase or result in my policy being canceled?
A: Generally the answer is no. One claim is not a cause for concern on the part of of insurance companies. But a pattern of claims may result in a premium increase or cancellation. So if you have a claim that is the third in three years, for example, that will be viewed differently than having one claim only. Individual claims that are suggestive of gross negligence can also result in significant premium increase or cancellation. An example might be an auto accident accompanied by a reckless driving or driving under the influence conviction.
Q: What is my policy deductible and what amount should I choose?
A: The deductible is the portion of an insured loss that would be paid for by a policyholder. Generally, you should pick the largest deductible you can afford. Reducing the total number of claims you submit, especially small ones, can help keep you insurance affordable. In fact, insurance credits offer savings for increased deductible amounts. If you would like us to see how much a higher deductible might reduce your premium just let us know and we’ll provide you a free quote.
Q: Are natural disasters such as flood, earthquakes and hurricanes covered under my homeowner policy?
A: Many natural disasters, such as hurricanes or tornadoes, are covered in a homeowner policy. Others, like earthquake and flood are not. Let us know if you have any concerns about your protection from loss due to natural or even man made disasters; we’ll be happy to review your insurance program and let you know what, if any, changes you might want to consider.
Q: What if another driver hits my car?
A: In most cases the other driver’s insurance policy would respond and reimburse you for damages to your vehicle, property or injuries. In some cases, as when you or your passengers are injured and the other driver has inadequate or no insurance, coverage from your own policy may apply (Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage).