Auto Claims

When should I make a claim? click to expand.

The first thing you should ask yourself is “am I safe”. Call 911 if you or any family member’s life is in danger. Here are three easy questions you can ask yourself when deciding whether or not to make an auto claim:

1. Does the damage or loss exceed my policy deductible?

We highly recommend you seek the advice of a Reliable Broker before making a claim if possible and safe to do so. We help you understand the ins-and-outs of your policy and the potential financial impact a claim can make on your future insurance policy renewals. For example if a claim is less than your deductible it may not make sense to claim.

Example you were shopping and return to your car to find someone scratched the car. Unfortunately if you do not have the other persons information you are likely subject to your comprehensive deductible. If thats the case and the damage is less than your deductible it may not make sense to claim. Give us a call and we can help guide you to making the right decision.

2. Was the damage caused by an instant and unexpected occurrence?

You insurance policy covers you for instant occurences not for maintenance and breakdown caused by neglect or wear and tear.

Let's say you forget to change the oil in your car and your engine seizes up, this would unfortunately not be covered. Unsure about whether or not something is covered? Call us we are here to help.

3. Does my policy cover me?

Before opening a claim it’s a good idea to check that your policy covers you for the claim you wish to make for loss or damages. This is why it is so important to have a Reliable Broker on your side to help you navigate and select the right coverages to begin with. We make sure you optimize the coverages available to you. If you are not sure if you are covered give us a call before you call the insurance company to make a claim.

 

I was in a car accident what do I do?

  1. Pull over to a safe spot and ensure that there are no injuries to you or anyone else in your vehicle. If you see that someone is injured, don’t move them

  2. Call 911 if there is an injury and try to stay calm

  3. Make sure you know where you are and make yourself visible

If the accident is not an emergency, call your local police for further instructions. Where an accident causes damages/injuries exceeding $2000, you must make a collision report to the police at the closest CRC – collision reporting centre. If you believe the accident is less than $2000 damages you do not need to contact the police to make a claim.

Claims Tips!

1.      Take pictures of the damage if it is safe to do so.  

2.      At first opportunity when you are in a safe place, draw a sketch of the accident describing what happened. 

Here is a list of information that you should collect at the scene of an accident, make sure you do not endanger yourself or others while collecting this information:

  •            Other driver's name

  •            Other driver's address

  •            Other driver's telephone number

  •            Other driver's license number

  •            Other driver's insurance company

  •            Other driver's policy number

  •            Other driver's vehicle description

  •            Witness information (name and phone number)