5 Helpful Tips for Reporting a Claim to Your Insurance Company

Small businesses work hard to provide a safe experience for both customers and employees. However, even with your best efforts, things can happen, and you may find yourself needing to file a claim with your insurance company. When reporting a new claim to your insurance carrier, be sure to have all relevant information ready to report, including who was involved, what happened, when it occurred, and where it happened. Here are a few recommendations for additional information you can share with your insurance carrier when you report a new claim. 

Witnesses 

Check around the area and find out if anyone saw the incident occur. Take note of names and contact information. If possible, request that any witnesses write a statement about what they saw. Be sure they sign and date the statement. Once the claim has been reported, your insurance company may reach out to witnesses to obtain additional information or clarification. 

Photographs

If possible, take photographs of any damage and the location of the incident. This information can be used to support any report of what happened and can also assist with subrogation or requesting reimbursement should any other party be involved. Pay special attention to any contributing factors of the incident, such as icy sidewalks, signs, lighting, weather etc. 

Video Footage 

Following an incident, be sure to check the area for video cameras that may have footage of the event. This is one of the best ways to accurately document what happened. Video footage can be from a camera you manage or from the scene of an accident or another business in the area. If you locate any video evidence of the incident, take steps to properly store this information and share with your insurance carrier. 

Police Reports 

If the police showed up to the scene, make a note of the responding agency, the report number, and how to best obtain a copy of the report. Police reports are another great way to confirm incident information. They typically include the date and time of an accident, the location, and any other parties involved. Anything we can do to support what happened in the incident will ensure the claims investigation process is as quick as possible. 

Medical Treatment 

If medical care was provided post incident, you can share the hospital or clinic information with your insurance carrier. This should include the name of the facility where treatment was rendered, as well as their address and phone number. Your insurance carrier will reach out to them to request medical records and provide the appropriate billing information.