Frequently Asked Questions About Claims
Auto Insurance Claims
Your priority should always be safety. Once everyone is safe, we recommend the following steps:
- Call the Police: Always request a police report when available. This provides an objective record of the event which is vital for the claims process.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved and the surrounding area.
- Exchange Information: Gather names, phone numbers, and insurance details from other drivers and witnesses.
Before officially filing a claim, we suggest obtaining a repair quote for the damages. Knowing the estimated cost of repairs helps you determine if the damage exceeds your deductible and if filing a claim is the best financial decision for you.
You have the right to choose any qualified body shop. However, for high-quality service and reliable results, we highly suggest:
- Reds Body Works (810-644-7771) in Swartz Creek: Our preferred local partner for collision repair.
If your vehicle is not drivable you may contact the towing service for your insurance company or for faster service, contact the closest highly rated towing service in your area and provide Francis Family Insurance with the receipt so we can get you reimbursed. In the Flint area we have had good luck with:
- Road Runner Towing (810-732-9869): They provide prompt and professional service for our clients.
Home Insurance Claims
Whether it’s storm damage, fire, or a pipe burst, take these steps to protect your property:
- Prevent Further Damage: If it is safe to do so, take “emergency” steps to stop further issues (like turning off the main water valve or covering a broken window).
- Get a Police Report: If the damage is due to theft, vandalism, or a break-in, please ensure a police report is filed.
- Get a Repair Estimate: Just like with auto claims, we suggest getting a professional repair quote before filing. This ensures you have a clear picture of the scope of the work needed.
For immediate mitigation, cleanup, and restoration (especially regarding water or fire damage), we suggest:
- Servpro (810-732-3298): They are experts in disaster recovery and can help stabilize your home quickly.
General Claims Advice
Filing a claim can sometimes impact your future premiums. If a repair quote comes back at $600 and your deductible is $500, it may be more cost-effective to pay for the repair out of pocket rather than having a claim on your insurance record for a $100 payout.
Once you have your police report (if applicable) and your repair estimates, give our office a call. We will review your coverage with you and help you submit the claim to the carrier to ensure everything goes smoothly.
We know that experiencing a loss can be stressful, and we are here to help you navigate the claims process with confidence. Below is a guide on how to handle the most common situations.
Or, give us a call at 810-584-7148
