What happens after you file a claim with car insurance

What should I do at the scene of the accident?

Being in an accident can be very stressful. Learn what steps you need to take after an accident now.

• Check to see if anyone was hurt
• Call 911, to request any needed medical assistance
• Move your car to a safe location, but do not leave the scene
• Do not admit fault or reveal your policy limits
• Contact the police. They'll send an officer if necessary
• Exchange information with those involved
• If your car isn't drivable, request roadside assistance

What information should you collect?

• Names, phone numbers, mailing addresses, and email addresses of the other driver(s), all vehicle occupants, and witnesses
• Location of the incident
• Photos of the scene and all vehicles involved, including tag numbers
• Insurance information from others involved: company name, policy number, and phone number

If emergency services respond, make a note of:

• Police report number
• Phone number
• Officer name and badge number

You can collect and store claim information right in the GEICO Mobile app.

Report a Claim

Filing your claim is fast and easy with the GEICO Mobile app or on geico.com/claims. You can also call us at (800) 841-3000.

If eligible, you can schedule a damage inspection, repair, and rental.

It's important to report your claim as soon as possible for a number of reasons. For example, accidents require a more detailed investigation. It's also better to investigate quickly after the accident so that everyone remembers the details.

Inspection and Repair Process

Once you report your claim, if eligible, make an appointment for a damage inspection.

• The inspection typically takes around 30 minutes.
• If your car isn't safe to drive, we'll send a GEICO adjuster to look at your car.
• You don't have to meet with our adjuster unless you want to.

After the inspection, you can have your vehicle repaired anywhere you wish.

Consider an Auto Repair Xpress® location for one-stop inspection, repair, and rental.

• The shop will begin the repair process as soon as you drop off your vehicle.
• You can go home in a rental vehicle if you have rental reimbursement coverage.
• You'll get regular updates on your car's repair progress

Report a new claim or track your claim today to see if you can schedule an inspection appointment online.

How to Be Prepared for Accidents

Here are some things you can do to make sure you're ready in case of an accident:

• Keep a vehicle safety kit in your car.
• Put your most important information in the glovebox: ID cards, vehicle registration, emergency contacts, and health insurance cards.
• Download the GEICO mobile app where you can collect info, file and track your claim, and in some cases get an estimate for damages.

If you decide to file a claim, it’s important to understand your coverage and follow the claims process outlined in your policy.

Your rights when you file a claim

Here's what you should expect from your insurer:

• A timely and clear explanation of their coverage decision
• A clear explanation of how they will pay your claim
• Timely responses to your questions
• Timely payments

Choosing the auto repair shop and repair parts

Typically, the choice is up to you for the auto repair shop. 

Talk with the insurance adjuster about what kind of parts they want to use to fix your car. The adjuster might recommend using Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts or non-OEM parts (also called aftermarket parts). They might also choose to select used parts from the same year as the damaged parts. If you demand they use new, OEM parts, you may have to pay for the difference in cost.

Be aware that currently there are nationwide issues occurring  due to auto parts and auto repair shop staffing shortages.

Getting a rental car

• If the other driver is at fault for the accident, their insurer may offer you some type of rental car coverage - either on a reimbursement basis or on a direct bill set up (the insurer pays it directly to the rental agency).
• If you're at fault, check your policy or with your agent to see if you have rental-car coverage.
• The delays on vehicle repairs could cause you to exhaust the rental car limit on your policy before the repairs are completed. 
• If you reach the policy limit, you might have out of pocket rental car expenses. Check with your insurance agent or the company about your rental car coverage.

Your responsibilities when you file a claim

• The amount of time you have to file an auto insurance claim after damage or an accident will vary based on your policy and the insurance company. Make sure to verify this part of your policy with your agent.
• You'll need to protect your car from any further damage and from causing injury to you or others.
• Keep receipts for any roadside service expenses, such as towing.

What happens when an insurance claim is made?

How long do insurance claim payouts take?

How do insurance companies pay out claims on a car?

What are the 4 steps in settlement of an insurance claim?