How to File an Insurance Claim After a Car Accident

Filing a Claim Doesn't Have to Be Stressful

Dealing with insurance after an accident is no one's idea of a good time. But it doesn't have to be a headache either. Here's how the process works, step by step.

Step 1: Report It Fast

Call your insurance company within 24 hours if you can. Have your policy number ready, along with the police report number and any photos you took at the scene.

Step 2: Get an Estimate

Bring your car to a collision shop you trust. We offer free estimates at Buff X Collision, and we know how to spot hidden damage that isn't always obvious from the outside.

Step 3: Know What Your Policy Covers

Take a few minutes to look at your policy. Check your deductible, see if you have rental car coverage, and understand what's included. In Michigan, collision coverage is what pays for your vehicle damage.

Step 4: Let Repairs Begin

Once your insurance reviews the estimate, they'll give the green light. If we find more damage once we start working on the car (which happens more often than you'd think), we handle the follow-up with your insurance directly.

Step 5: Get Your Car Back

When the work is done, we do a full quality check before you pick it up. You'll get a clear breakdown of everything that was repaired, and it's all backed by our lifetime warranty.