15 guides
Car accident and claim guides
Independent education for drivers. We're not an insurer, adjuster or law firm, and we never share your details.
At the scene
Safety, information, photos and police reports.
- What to do after a car accident
The steps in order, from the first minute to the next day.
- What information to exchange after a crash
The details you need from the other driver, and what you should share.
- Photos that help your claim
A simple shot list for documenting a crash with your phone.
- Police reports: when to call and how to get a copy
Why a report helps, and how to request one afterwards.
- Hit-and-run and uninsured drivers
What to do, and which coverage may help.
The claim
Filing, adjusters, repairs and rentals.
- How to file a car insurance claim
Your insurer or theirs, what to have ready, and what to say.
- Working with an insurance adjuster
What adjusters do, and how to keep the process moving.
- Choosing a repair shop
Insurer-recommended shops, your own choice, and repair estimates.
- Getting a rental car after an accident
Who pays, for how long, and the limits to know.
Payouts and bills
Total losses, diminished value, deductibles and medical bills.
- When your car is a total loss
How insurers decide, how actual cash value works, and how to respond to an offer.
- Diminished value claims
Why a repaired car can be worth less, and when you can claim it.
- Getting your deductible back (subrogation)
How your insurer recovers costs from the at-fault driver, and how you can benefit.
- Paying medical bills after a crash
PIP, MedPay, health insurance and the other driver's liability coverage.
When you disagree
Escalating, complaints and when to get legal advice.
- When to consider legal help
Situations where talking to an attorney may be worth it.
- If you disagree with your insurer
Escalate inside the company, use your policy's appraisal clause, or contact your state insurance department.