How do I file an auto insurance claim with Nationwide?

You can file an auto insurance claim with Nationwide online or call a customer representative at the company's toll-free number for help. Here are five steps for you to follow to make the Nationwide claims process as easy as possible, including taking photos, getting a police report, and collecting insurance information.

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What You Should Know

  • You can file an auto insurance claim with Nationwide online or by phone
  • Nationwide has five steps for you to follow as you prepare to file
  • The more information you get, the easier the process may be

Are you looking for information about how to file an auto insurance claim? Specifically, you might be asking, “What information do I need to file an auto insurance claim with Nationwide?” We understand that this process can be stressful, and you may have a lot on your mind, so we’ve asked the question for you and provided the answers below.

The Five Steps to File an Auto Insurance Claim With Nationwide

Nationwide wants to make it as easy as possible to compile a claim, so you can schedule your repairs and get your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible. Follow the steps below to file a car insurance claim with Nationwide.

Collect Information to File a Claim with Nationwide

Good information is key to making the process easier, including the location and time of the incident, the name of the driver (if there’s more than one on your policy), and a basic description of the event. If there were any witnesses, you should get their contact information too.

If the incident involved another vehicle, you need the driver’s name and contact information, along with their insurance company name and policy number.

You also need the names of any passengers and the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number. If you weren’t able to get that information, you can look up what to do if you didn’t get any insurance information after an accident.

Gather Photos to File a Claim with Nationwide

Photographic evidence could be key, especially if there is any dispute. Photograph the damage to all vehicles and get images of the surrounding area and the accident scene.

Read more: What should I do at the scene of an accident to prepare for an insurance claim?

Get a Police Report to File a Claim with Nationwide

Do you need to file a police report after an accident? While a police report isn’t always necessary, it may help, especially when deciding who is at fault. You shouldn’t admit any blame at the scene but just state the facts. The police officer will generate a report which you can then submit.

Retain All the Paperwork to File a Claim with Nationwide

Keep track of all the paperwork, including any receipts for towing or other immediate services at the scene.

File the Nationwide Claim

When you have all the information to hand, you can contact Nationwide. You can either call the number on your insurance card or file your claim online.

Once you upload or send the information, you’ll get a claim number from your representative. You can then wait for an adjuster to get in touch to discuss the following steps.

This is often when the insurance company assesses fault. What happens if fault can’t be determined after a car accident is that the insurance companies either split fault or keep working together until a resolution is made.

Once you’ve given Nationwide all the information, you may need to schedule an inspection of the vehicle at a certified repair shop. Then, when the adjuster has given you an estimate, you can choose where to repair the vehicle. Nationwide will either pay the shop directly or send you a check for the amount.

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It’s Easy to File an Auto Insurance Claim With Nationwide

Nationwide has a five-step process to follow when filing an auto insurance claim. You can initiate the process by calling an agent or logging on to your account to do so online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is handling my claim at Nationwide?

You can get the name and phone number of the estimator who is handling your claim by logging on to your account or calling the company directly.

Can an insurance claim payment be deposited directly into my bank account?

You can achieve this by logging into your account and selecting the claim payment options. You can then get the amount electronically or opt to receive a paper check in the mail.

What should I do after a hit-and-run accident?

Where possible, get the license plate number of the other vehicle and details of its make, model, color, and year. You should report this to the police and then get in touch with Nationwide to file a claim.

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