Imagine this: You are driving out of state and suddenly you find yourself involved in a car accident. Your mind will likely suddenly swirl with questions. Are there different steps you should take when filing a claim out of state? What if the state’s required minimum is more than your state’s? And will your insurance company travel to another state to look at your vehicle? If you are in this situation, getting answers to some of the questions you have may help to ease some of your worry and stress.
Are There Different Steps to Take When Filing a Claim Out of State?
For the most part, no. When possible, you will want to get a report from law enforcement. You will want to exchange insurance information with the other driver. You will want to get contact information from any witnesses. And you will want to take pictures of the accident scene to document everything. From there, you will want to notify your insurance company and if required, the DMV in your state.
What if Your Minimum Auto Insurance is Less Than the State You Are Traveling In?
If you only carry the minimum amount of auto insurance, your auto insurance automatically adjusts to the minimum amount when you travel in another state. As such, if you are required to carry $15,000 in insurance in your state, but travel to a state that requires you to carry $20,000, your auto insurance will automatically increase the amount if you are in an accident in that state.
How Do You Get Your Car Inspected and Repaired?
If you are out of state, your insurance company may handle the inspection process a bit differently. Depending on how close you are to your state, they may have one of their adjusters drive out to the repair shop to inspect your car. If they are a nationwide company, or have offices in the area, they may have a company representative inspect the car. Some will accept pictures or phone snap shots if the damage is minor. And other companies may just ask for pictures along with a write up from the repair company. Ask your insurance company how they handle this situation, as it does vary.
If you have questions about your auto insurance policy and driving out of state, or you plan on driving out of state frequently for work and want a new policy that offers better protection, contact Peter Laczko Insurance Inc. We serve the greater Woodstock, GA are and would love to help you with all of your insurance needs.
