I tell all my insured’s to call me first if they have a claim.  I tell them, I want to talk to you first, if possible, to advise you before you talk to a claims representative. 

An insured of mine recently called to ask about a possible claim on their auto insurance policy.

The insured said, “I hit a pole”. 

Okay, good thing the insured called me first, instead of the claims department. 

The damage to the insured’s bumper was approximately $750.  The insured’s deductible is $500.  Now, I explained to the insured.  If you make this claim, you will receive $750 minus your $500 deductible.  You will receive $250 to fix your car, the rest is your responsibility.

Further, you are at fault in a property damage only accident.  On renewal, you will be surcharged anywhere from $300 to $500 more per year for the next 3 years because you reported this claim.  Now, its easy to do the math.  Is it worth receiving $250 on your claim to have to pay back the insurance company for a surcharge of $900 or more over the next 3 years?

I think NOT!  

This is why it is always important to call your insurance agent before you make a claim.  Discuss the options and make a decision based on knowing what will happen.

Now, don’t get me wrong, if you’re in a serious accident or its after hours and you are unable to reach your agent, call the claims number listed on your proof of insurance I.D. card and report your claim. 

The example above shows you just one of many reasons why you need a knowledgeable insurance agent.  At www.starkquote.com, we take pride in our experience and helping people make the right insurance decisions.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns or just want an insurance quote, contact www.starkquote.com.

You can call us for California insurance quotes during normal business hours at our toll free number 1-800-654-4003

We are the experts for California Car and Home Insurance.