Auto Insurance Claims in 2026 (Terms Explained)

Auto insurance claims are how you get compensated after accidents or theft, covering up to $25,000 in property damage and $50,000 for injuries.

This guide walks you through the filing steps, from gathering police reports to submitting your claim to maximize coverage and avoid considerable out-of-pocket costs. Find out how filing quickly and staying on top of things can speed up the process.

Plus, see how different coverage options, starting at $59 a month, determine what types of claims you can make and help you budget for auto insurance effectively. Start comparing total coverage auto insurance rates by entering your ZIP code.

Understanding the Process of Auto Insurance Claims

An auto insurance claim requests compensation for damages or losses after a car accident or any covered incident. You submit them to your insurance company (or another driver’s insurance company).

A claim differs from an inquiry when you ask your insurance company if your situation warrants a claim. Learn more about the difference between an auto insurance inquiry and an insurance claim.

Filing an auto insurance claim is similar to filing a claim for another type of insurance, like health, homeowners, or renters policies. Major insurance companies let you file auto insurance claims online via an app or website portal.

If your incident is complex and you have questions, call your insurance company to begin the filing process.

You should file a claim immediately, even if you are at fault. Ideally, you should do it at the scene of an accident, but this may not always be realistic. If you file it within a few days, your insurance company will take the claim seriously.

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Essential Documents for Filing an Insurance Claim

Filing a claim online is simple but involves submitting important information. To see an example of filing a claim, refer to Kemper’s claim reporting page. It includes space to explain the incident and asks for policy, vehicle, and personal details.

The best auto insurance companies make claim submission easy. However, you often need to submit evidence that goes beyond basic details. This may include police reports, witness contact information, and another driver’s contact, policy, and license details.

It’s important to collect this evidence at the scene of an incident if you can.

Comparing Monthly Rates After Filling an Auto Insurance Claim

This table breaks down monthly rates from top insurance providers, giving you a quick look at what each company charges for auto insurance claims coverage.

Insurance Company	Monthly Rates
	$160
	$139
	$80
	$174
	$115
	$105
	$86
	$99
	$59

If you’re looking for low-cost options, USAA leads with just $59 a month, while Geico and State Farm follow with affordable rates of $80 and $86. Travelers is also budget-friendly at $99. On the higher end, Liberty Mutual charges $174 monthly, and Allstate is $160.

Comparing these rates and the different types of auto insurance coverage available makes it easier to see which providers can help you save while offering solid coverage.

Steps for Processing an Auto Insurance Claim

After you file a claim, your insurance company will process it and compensate you within a few weeks unless interruptions occur. You can also check the status of an auto insurance claim to see how it’s progressing. Here is what insurance companies do when processing a claim:

• Receive and document the claim.
• Assign an adjuster to investigate the incident.
• Assess the damage, obtain repair estimates, and gather medical records if needed.
• Review policy details, deduct deductibles, and consider exclusions.
• Determine compensation, inform the policyholder, and settle the claim.

Your insurance company may have to take additional steps, like liability evaluation, to determine if you were negligent or at fault during an incident.

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Key Steps for Filing an Auto Insurance Claim

Before filing, you should ensure you have the right auto insurance coverage for the incident. For example, if you only pay for state-mandated minimum coverage, you may not be able to report vehicle theft.

Many drivers who frequently use their vehicles choose to build their policies until they have affordable full coverage car insurance. This gives them the power to submit claims for various situations when necessary.

Affordable Auto Insurance Options for All Drivers

Filing auto insurance claims is how you communicate with your insurance company that you need the financial help you deserve. Understanding how auto insurance works can help you navigate this process smoothly. When it’s appropriate to file a claim, you should always do so as soon as possible.

As long as you follow the proper steps and have the right coverage, you should receive payment promptly. Enter your ZIP code below in our free quote comparison tool to find affordable auto insurance, no matter your driving record.