A car insurance claim for repairs in six steps: documenting the damage, your coverage, choosing the shop, the adjuster, the repair and closing the claim.
An insurance claim for auto repairs can be stressful, but knowing the process makes it smoother, whether it is a minor fender-bender or major collision damage. Here it is, step by step.
Step 1: Assess the damage and contact your insurer
After an accident, safety comes first. Once everyone is safe and emergency services have been called if needed, look at the damage and take clear photos: they matter for the claim.
Then notify your insurance company. Give them accurate details and share the photos and any police report. Reporting early keeps the claim moving.
Step 2: Understand your coverage
Read your policy. Does it cover collision repairs, or only liability? Knowing your deductible and exclusions avoids surprises. If anything is unclear, ask your insurer what is covered and what you will pay yourself.
Step 3: Choose the repair shop
Once the claim is filed, you choose the shop. Many insurers keep a list of preferred shops, but you are not obliged to use one: in New York, an insurer cannot require that the car be repaired at a particular shop.
Look for a shop that offers:
- Experience with insurance claims
- Transparent pricing
- Certified technicians
We repair cars under insurance claims and work with all major insurance companies.
Step 4: Work with the claims adjuster
Your insurer will usually send an adjuster to inspect the damage and estimate the cost. Cooperate, and provide the documents asked for, including the shop's estimate and your photos. The shop can work with the adjuster so the estimate covers the repairs the car really needs.
Step 5: Approve the repairs and follow them
Once the insurer approves the claim, the repairs can begin. Ask the shop for a detailed breakdown of the work, and stay in touch while it is done.
Step 6: Check the repairs and close the claim
When the work is done, inspect the car before you accept it, and tell the shop right away if anything is wrong. Then confirm with your insurer that the claim is closed, and keep every receipt and document.
Our shop at 300 McGuinness Boulevard in Greenpoint repairs collision damage under insurance claims, and our tow truck can bring in a car that can't be driven. Call (718) 349-9742, Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 6 PM.
