Insurance Claims 101: Don’t File Until You Read This

You never plan for it. One minute you’re driving home from the grocery store, the next…BAM!....a distracted driver runs a red light and collides with your car. Or maybe you come home from vacation to find your front door kicked in and your valuables missing. Even the washing machine can turn against you, flooding your living room when you least expect it.

Life happens. And when it does, insurance is there to help. But in the middle of the chaos, it’s not always clear: Should I file a claim? What happens if I do? Let’s walk through it together.

What Is an Insurance Claim?

Filing a claim is simply letting your insurance company know that you’ve had a covered loss and asking them to help pay for repairs or replacement.

Once the paperwork is in, the company usually sends an insurance adjuster to investigate what happened. If it’s approved, they’ll send you a check to help cover the costs.

It sounds simple…but deciding whether or not to file isn’t always black and white.

When Should You File a Claim?

Here’s the general rule: if the cost of damage is lower than your deductible (or just barely above it), filing may not make sense. For example, if you have a $1,000 deductible and the damage is $1,200, you’d only get $200 from your insurance, while still risking higher premiums down the road. In that case, paying out of pocket might be smarter.

But there are three clear situations when you should file:

1. When someone is injured. Medical bills can add up fast, and you’ll want your insurance company involved right away.
2. When it’s unclear who’s at fault. Let the insurance companies sort it out. That’s what they’re there for.
3. When the loss is significant. If your car is totaled or your home suffers major damage, don’t try to shoulder that cost alone.

How to File a Claim

If you do need to file, here are the basic steps:

1. Call the police if necessary. For accidents with injuries or major property damage, a police report makes the claims process smoother.
2. Document everything. Take photos, gather names, numbers, license plate info, and keep records of conversations and receipts.
3. Contact your insurance company. They’ll guide you through what information you need and how long you have to file.
4. Submit your claim. Most companies allow you to do this online, by phone, or through a mobile app.

What Happens Next?

After you file, an adjuster may investigate the damage. Simple claims can wrap up in a matter of weeks, while complex ones with disputes can take several months. Once everything is settled, payment usually arrives within a couple of weeks.

The Glidewell Difference

Filing a claim can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. At Glidewell, our team is here to help you weigh the pros and cons, walk through the steps, and make sure you’re protected from financial surprises.

Because insurance isn’t just about paperwork. It’s about peace of mind. And when life throws you the unexpected, you deserve someone on your side to help make it right.