How do I file a claim?
You can file a claim online or by
calling our dedicated Claims Reporting Line at 1.800.779.2103. If
you are not an Acceptance customer and would like to file a claim
with us please call 1.800.779.2103.
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What happens after my claim has been filed?
A claim representative will work with you to:
- Review and assess available coverages
- Determine who is at fault for the accident, if applicable
- Estimate damage to vehicles, property and injuries
- Bring your claim to conclusion as quickly as possible
Please take a look at some of the additional FAQs below for
answers to commonly asked questions.
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How do I obtain a Claims Representative?
We'll assign your claim to an expert in your state laws and
regulations. Call our dedicated Claims Reporting Line at
1.800.779.2103 if you need assistance.
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Do I need to file a police report for damage or
theft?
Yes, it is always a good idea to file a police report to
document the circumstances.
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Do I need to file a state Motor Vehicle Accident
Report?
Only if it's required by your state. Call
1.800.779.2103 or ask your local Agent if you need to.
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If the other person is at fault, why do I have to file
a claim with Acceptance, too?
Typically, we can help you settle the claim with the other
insurance company. It's part of the value we offer when you choose
Acceptance. We'll handle the responsibility of settling your claim
so you can get back on the road faster. Plus, if you are sued, we
may hire a lawyer to represent your interests.
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How long will it take to process my claim?
Every claim is different. Acceptance will handle your claim as
quickly as possible, given all of the variables. You can do your
part by contacting us immediately and providing timely information.
Ask your Claims Representative what to expect once you get the
process started.
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How can I check the status of my claim?
Call your Claims Representative for status updates or call our
dedicated Claims Reporting Line at 1.800.779.2103.
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What's a Deductible?
A deductible is the out-of-pocket money you pay before your
insurance coverage begins. It's typically $250 to $1,000 per claim.
For example, if the covered claim is $2,500 and your deductible is
$500, you pay $500. Acceptance pays the remaining $2,000.
To reduce your monthly payment, choose a higher deductible.
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I was not at fault for the accident. Will I have to
pay my deductible?
As a general rule, yes. However, we'll try to get the full
amount of your deductible back from the person at fault.
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My damages are probably not more than my deductible.
Why do I need to file a claim?
Until we inspect your vehicle and estimate damages, we can't
tell you if repairs are less than your deductible. If you do have
damages, our inspection and repair options include workmanship
guarantees. You'll know that you're getting the best value for your
money. Plus, if you're involved in a lawsuit due to the accident,
we can help you resolve it.
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If my car needs repairs, how will you pay for
them?
If you've chosen Comprehensive and Collision coverage, we'll
estimate damages. Then, after you pay your deductible (directly to
the repair company), Acceptance will cover the rest.
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Do I need two estimates to determine how much it will
cost to repair my car after an accident?
Probably not. If you have Comprehensive and Collision coverage,
we can inspect your vehicle and provide an estimate. If you prefer,
you can take your vehicle to an authorized Acceptance repair shop;
no estimate will be required. Preferred Partners
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Where do I go to get my car inspected?
If you can drive or tow your car to a secure location (such as
your house or office), we'll send an appraiser to meet you at your
convenience.
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Where can I have my car repaired?
After you have your repair estimate, you can get more value if
you choose one of our Preferred Partners. If you prefer,
you may also select your own repair shop.
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What do I do after I receive my repair estimate?
First, choose a place to have your repairs made. It might be
your local dealership, collision repair shop, or any other option
you prefer. Then, make an appointment and provide a copy of your
estimate so parts can be ordered in advance. If you need a
referral, ask your claims representative.
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What if additional damage is found?
The repair company will contact the person who originally
inspected your car. Together, they'll update the estimate and send
it to Acceptance for review. If the damage is not related to the
accident, you can choose whether or not to pay for it directly.
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I need a rental car while my car is being repaired.
Will you pay for it?
If you purchased Rental Reimbursement Coverage, yes. Acceptance
will reimburse your expenses up to the amount shown in your policy
declarations. Hertz® is our Preferred Partner, and will take
care of the arrangements for you.
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What is a Total Loss?
A total-loss car would cost more to repair than its current
value. If you have Comprehensive and Collision coverage, we'll send
the lien holder (you, your bank, or your dealership) the settlement
amount, minus your deductible.
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My car is totaled. Now what?
First, remove your personal items as soon as possible. Leave
your key with the car. Acceptance will get your permission to move
it to a free storage facility. If it has been impounded, fees
can add up quickly, so we take action as soon as possible. Locate
your loan paperwork (if any) or your title (if available) so we can
process your claim as fast as possible. NOTE:If
you do have an auto loan, you must continue to make payments on
your car until your claim is settled.
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If my car is totaled, how do you determine the vehicle
value?
We use local and national information to determine the market
value for your car. We consider the condition, mileage, and other
factors, as well.
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What if I owe more on my car loan than my car is
worth?
In this case, we'll send the entire payment to your lender. You
will be responsible for paying any extra money that's due. Please
contact your lender directly to discuss the details.
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What is a Lien Holder?
Basically, a lien holder owns the loan on your car and your
title. If you are making payments or leasing a car, a bank or
dealership is probably your lien holder. Why should you know who
has the title to your car? As a general rule, our settlement
payments are made to that person.
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Who will receive the check for my totaled car?
If you're still paying off your car, we'll send a check to the
lien holder, typically your bank or dealership. If you have the
title to your car, we will send you a check after we receive your
title. We will provide a title search, too.
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I think there has been fraud involving my policy. What
should I do?
To help protect you from fraud, we employ special investigative
units nationwide to help identify and control claims that may
involve fraud. Even if you're not sure, please contact our Fraud
Department at 1.800.321.0899, ext. 32534.
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How do I know if I'm being sued due to an accident? If
I think I am, what should I do?
You'll receive an official notification called a "Summons" or a
"Complaint" if someone is suing you. It is important to immediately
contact your Claims Representative and send copies of these
documents to your representative. (Keep the original
documents.)
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My stolen vehicle was recovered. What should I
do?
If the police find your car, they'll tell you where it's
located. Ask for a copy of the police report that includes their
description of any damage. Then, contact the Acceptance dedicated
Claims Line at 1.800.779.2103 as soon as possible so we can start
processing your claim.
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How long will it take to get my deductible
reimbursed?
If your deductible is reimbursable, it may be part of your
entire settlement from the person who caused the accident.
Sometimes an attorney or collection agency is required, which can
take longer.
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Will my claim be covered?
There is no simple answer to this very important question. Lots
of factors are used to determine coverage on a case-by-case
basis.
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