At Hutsenpiller Insurance, we understand that auto accidents are never easy. That's why we're here to walk you through every step of the claims process, ensuring you receive fair treatment and the best possible outcome. Our role is to be your advocate with the insurance company—working hard to protect your interests while keeping you informed and supported every step of the way.
Ensure Your Well-Being:
Safely move your vehicle away from traffic and check for any injuries.
If there’s any concern for health, call emergency services immediately.
Involve the Authorities:
File a police report, as it is essential for both legal matters and supporting your claim.
Pro Tip: Always get a police report if possible. While someone may seem cordial at the accident site, stories change. A police report gives you written documentation of what happened and prevents stories from changing after the fact.
Capture Clear Photos:
Take detailed photos of all vehicles involved from multiple angles, ensuring all damage is visible.
Photograph the overall scene—including road conditions, weather, and any other relevant details.
Exchange Information:
Gather contact and insurance details from everyone involved.
Pro Tip: If possible, get the other drivers insurance information. While the police will collect that information, it will only be available on the report. These reports can take 5 business days to process and may delay your claim.
Write down the names and contact numbers of any witnesses.
Record the Details:
Note the time, location, weather, and circumstances that contributed to the accident. These details are crucial for a complete claim.
Our Online Portal Is Here for You:
Visit our File a Claim portal on our website. Here, you can securely upload your photos, police report, and any related documentation.
You may also report losses directly to your insurance carrier by using the phone number on your insurance card, the carrier's mobile app, or the Hutsenpiller Insurance mobile app.
Prefer to Speak With Us?
You can also call us any time, Monday - Friday from 6am to 5pm CDT. Our knowledgeable team is ready to guide you and answer any questions.
Timely Notification:
Inform us about the accident as soon as possible. Early notification allows us to move quickly on your behalf.
Your Advocate Every Step of the Way:
Our experienced agents work as your advocate, ensuring that every detail is addressed with the insurance company. We’re not just processing your claim—we’re fighting for you.
Weekly Check-Ins:
We will reach out to you every week to update you on the progress of your claim and address any questions or concerns.
Reach Out Immediately:
If you ever feel that things are not going as expected, please contact us immediately. We're here to step in and ensure that your claim is handled properly and fairly.
Remote Evaluations:
Many carrier adjusters assess damages using the detailed photos and documents you provide, reducing the need for in-person inspections. Do not be alarmed if the adjuster says he is not coming to view your vehicle. Technology has made this step less important.
Faster, Accurate Processing:
Carriers use advanced software that quickly calculates repair costs and verifying damages so you can get back on the road sooner.
Their Role:
The claims adjuster assigned to your case is an employee or contractor of your insurance carrier and has the final say on the claim's payout. While we serve as your advocate to make sure your interests are represented, the adjuster’s assessment ultimately determines the amount your claim will be settled for.
Pro Tip: Always be kind and respectful to your adjuster. Remember, they're people too. Maintaining a cordial relationship can facilitate smoother communication and may even help in achieving a more favorable outcome
Damage Estimates and Coverage:
Your payout is calculated based on repair estimates, your policy limits, deductibles, and vehicle depreciation.
How Payments Work:
Payments may be sent directly to your chosen body shop or reimbursed to you once repairs are completed. In some cases, an initial advance is provided to help start repairs.
Adjustments / Supplementals:
If additional damage is discovered during repairs, your carrier will adjust your final payout accordingly. Do not be alarmed if initial estimates and final repair costs differ. Your body shop will work with your claims adjuster to make sure all the damage is repaired.
Your Freedom of Choice:
You are free to select any reputable body shop for your repairs. We encourage you to consider recommendations and reviews to choose the right fit for your needs.
Pro Tip: Your insurance company is not going to recognize your uncle Chuck who works on cars under the Maple tree in his front yard as a reputable shop.
Preferred Shops Benefits:
Your carrier will provide you with a network of preferred shops offers streamlined service with warranties on parts and labor. While these shops offer added benefits, the final decision is always yours.
Final Inspection:
Once repairs are completed, You should do a final inspection to ensure that all work meets your standards.
Documentation:
Keep all receipts, invoices, and warranty details from the repairs. This documentation is essential for your records.
Final Payment:
After the final review, any remaining payments are processed, and your claim is officially closed.
Post-Claim Assistance:
Even after your claim is closed, our team remains available to help with any follow-up issues or questions you might have. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our priorities.
At Hutsenpiller Insurance, our mission is to make the auto accident claims process transparent, efficient, and supportive. From the moment an accident occurs, we’re here not only to process your claim but to act as your advocate with the insurance company.
If things ever seem off or you have any concerns during the process, please reach out to us immediately. We're here to ensure you receive the dedicated support you deserve.
If you need to file a claim, please visit our File a Claim portal or give our office a call. Thank you for trusting Hutsenpiller Insurance.
Stay safe, and let us handle the rest.