Most policies require that a written declaration or "proof of loss" is completed by the insured. If you don't make your claim within a set time period, your insurer may not be legally bound to cover it. In practice, most insurers will honour a claim made within 1 year You should:
- Complete a "proof of loss" within 90 days of the collision
- Notify the other driver of claim against them (if applicable)
- Notify the other driver's insurance company (if applicable)
- Review your policy and contract term limits if you intend to sue your own insurer
If you have purchased collision or all perils coverage, your insurer will pay for the damage. You must not voluntarily assume liability (responsibility) for any collision or settle any claim, except at your own cost.
3 Key Claims Tips
- If you are injured, you may be entitled to benefits. Your insurer will provide the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule, the necessary claim forms and help you complete them.
- If your vehicle is damaged but repairable, your insurer may suggest repairs be carried out by one of their preferred shops. These are repair facilities the insurer has evaluated as to the quality of their work. If you select a repair shop on your own and the work is unsatisfactory, you will need to deal with the shop. Note that your insurer will not pay more than the price quoted by their preferred shop
- If the damage is major and cannot be repaired to a safe state, or the cost of repairs is more than the value of the vehicle before it was damaged, the insurer may declare the car a total loss and negotiate a settlement.
Your Claims Adjuster
A claims specialist or “adjuster” will be assigned by your insurer to look after your claim and determine how much damage is covered.
How to Document Your Auto Insurance Claim
Take photos with your cellphone and sketch the accident scene. Note the positions of the vehicles.
It’s important to record all collision details and share them with your adjuster:
- How it happened, the time, date and location
- The speed of your vehicle and the road conditions
- Insurance information (i.e. driver’s licences, plate numbers, insurance companies and brokers)
- Contact information (i.e. names, addresses, phone numbers) of drivers, passengers and witnesses
Learn more about how you can prevent further loss after a collision.