Car accidents can be stressful and overwhelming experiences, however, knowing the right steps to take can help ease the process and ensure a smoother car insurance claim. It’s crucial to understand how to navigate the claims process effectively and we’re ALWAYS here to help! In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step approach to handling a car accident and completing your car insurance claim effectively.
Ensure Safety First: Your safety and the safety of others involved should always be the top priority. Once you’ve assessed the situation and ensured everyone’s well-being, it’s time to proceed with the following steps.
Gather Relevant Information: Collecting essential details about the accident will greatly assist you when filing your car insurance claim. Make sure to note down the following information:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Contact details of all parties involved (including witnesses)
- Driver’s license and insurance information of the other parties
- Registration numbers of the vehicles involved
- Photos of the accident scene, damages, and any visible injuries
Notify the Police and Call Stella: It’s essential to report accidents to the police if there are injuries, significant property damage, or if the other driver fails to stop and provide their details. Additionally, promptly contact us on 1300 633 811 to inform us about the accident and initiate the claims process. We will guide you on the required documents and procedures. Ps. We’re available 24/7.
Document the Incident: To support your car insurance claim, document the incident thoroughly. This documentation may include:
- A detailed account of the accident, including the sequence of events
- Diagrams or sketches illustrating the positions of the vehicles
- Any statements made by the other party involved
- Copies of reports or invoices for any related expenses
Complete the Lodgement over the Phone: Our claims team will gather information from you and complete the lodgement over the phone. When on the phone with the claims agent, make sure you:
- Are honest and provide detailed descriptions of the accident and damages.
- Clearly mention any damages to the vehicle or to someone else’s vehicle/property.
- Provide any supporting documents, such as police reports or repair estimates.
- Pay close attention to the instructions provided by us and let us know if you have any questions.
Follow Up: After completing the lodgement on the call, you will receive an email to acknowledge the lodgement, which includes the basic details, information on excess payable if applicable, claim handler contact information, and allocated repairer details.
If during the lodgement call, you were unsure of which QBE Accredited Repairer to select, we will include a link in our email to the full QBE Accredited Repair network so that you can confirm which one would suit you best.
In some cases, we would reach out to you by email for additional information if required or if there was anything not provided during the lodgement call.
Don’t forget to:
- Keep copies of all documents for your records.
- Stay in touch with us to ensure you have received the claim.
- Be prepared to answer any additional questions or provide further documentation.
- Maintain open communication throughout the claim process to address any concerns promptly.
Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, but understanding the process of filling out a car insurance claim can provide some relief. By following these steps and ensuring accurate and thorough documentation, you can navigate the claims process more effectively. If you don’t insure with Stella then do remember that each insurance policy and provider may have specific requirements, so consult your insurer’s guidelines for a seamless car insurance claim experience. By acting promptly and diligently, you can work towards the successful resolution you deserve!
Remember, if you require further assistance or have specific questions related to your car insurance claim, reach out to us directly at 1300 633 811 24/7 for guidance and support.
Underwriting criteria apply. Stella Comprehensive Car Insurance is issued and underwritten by QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545) (QBE) and distributed by Stella Underwriting Pty Ltd (ABN 72633811319) acting as an Authorised Representative (AR 001282046) of Insurtech Gateway Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 27 633 140 879, AFSL 525866), which is acting under its own AFSL on behalf of QBE. Any advice provided is general only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs and may not be right for you. You should consider the appropriateness of any such advice, and read the Product Disclosure Statement (‘PDS’), the Target Market Determination (‘TMD’), and Financial Services Guide (‘FSG’) for these products available at www.stellainsurance.com.au before making a decision to acquire or to continue to hold the product.
