SPONSORED: Tips for dealing with car insurance after a car accident

Getting into a car accident is stressful, but sometimes the aftermath can be even worse even if you and your passengers were lucky enough to walk away unharmed. You’ll likely need auto repairs after a collision, and more likely than not you’ll have to get them via a car insurance company. 

This can add a whole lot of stress to your plate, but if you know your way around the process beforehand it can definitely make things easier. Toyota of N Charlotte is here with tips on how to handle car insurance after a car accident so you - and your N Charlotte Toyota - can get back out on the road. 

Take these steps to handle car insurance after a collision

#1: Get all of the information you need at the scene of the accident. Before you leave the scene of the accident, you should collect details like the other driver’s name, vehicle information, contact information, and insurance information. Take lots of pictures and be sure to get a copy of the accident report from the police officer that reported to the scene, too. 

#2: File an insurance claim ASAP. Did you know that you actually have a limited amount of time to file a claim with the car insurance company? Do it right away to get the process started and get it off of your plate. Remember, if the car accident was your fault, you file with your own car insurance company. If it was the other driver’s fault, you file a claim with their car insurance. When you file, be sure to ask about a deductible if applicable (how much you’ll have to pay out of pocket) and if the car insurance will cover a rental while your N Charlotte Toyota is in the shop for repairs. 

#3: Schedule an estimate with the car insurance company. Before you get started on auto repairs for your N Charlotte Toyota, it’s important to schedule an estimate with an appraiser from the car insurance company. Most of them won’t approve repairs before an estimate is obtained, because they want to know how much it’s going to cost. Be sure to schedule one BEFORE you try to start the repair process. 

#4: Prep for drop-off ahead of time. Once you’ve chosen a repair shop - and did we mention that we have a Toyota Collision Center on-site at Toyota of N Charlotte? - it’s time to schedule your appointment. Make sure that the car insurance you’re working with will work with the auto repair shop, and also be sure to set up your rental car BEFORE you drop your N Charlotte Toyota off. Once you arrive at the body shop, make sure they have the car insurance company’s contact information, your contact information, and ask for an estimated time for repairs. 

Schedule auto repairs at Toyota of N Charlotte’s body shop! 

Whether you need auto repairs after a car accident or just need advice about your car insurance claim, call us! Toyota of N Charlotte is open seven days a week at (704) 659-2025.