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What to do if you have an Automobile Accident or Loss

If you get in an auto accident you'll have a lot on your mind. Is everyone okay? Will my vehicle be fixed so it's just like it was before? How long will it be in the shop? Will my insurance company treat me right?

We are here to help you through the claims process. We will take your report, explain your coverages, help with the required forms and advocate on your behalf.

At the Scene (You might want to print this page and keep it in your glove compartment for easy reference in case of an accident.)

  • Provide assistance to any injured person. Call 911 and get trained emergency medical personnel to the scene.
  • Protect yourself, your vehicle and your belongings from further damage or loss.
  • Exchange information with the other parties and get the names of any witnesses.
    • Pay particular attention to the Other Driver’s Name, Address, Phone and License Number.
    • Pay particular attention to the Other Vehicle’s Make, Model, Color, Insurance Company and Registration Number.
    • If required, contact the police. In most states, it is unlawful to leave the scene of an accident without permission. In case of auto theft, or a hit-and-run accident, it is very important that you contact the police within 24 hours.
    • Feel free to take pictures of the accident scene with a camera or your cell phone.
  • DO NOT argue;
  • DO NOT accept responsibility;
  • DO NOT discuss the accident in detail except with your company claims representative or us.

To Report An Automobile Loss

As soon as possible, call us to complete a detailed loss report. Here are some things you can do to make your claim go smoothly.
  • Include all relevant details including names, addresses and phone numbers of the drivers, injured persons and witnesses.
  • Be sure to give us all your phone numbers.
  • Tell us where your vehicle is and whether it can or can’t be driven.
  • Cooperate with the claims service specialist who contacts you in order to handle your claim effectively, efficiently and quickly.
  • Report all losses, no matter how minor. Although the damage may seem so small, the other driver or a passenger may report being injured later.

Arbella Customers

If you have Collision Coverage and your vehicle is driveable, the fastest and easiest way to get an appraisal is to take it to an Arbella drive-in claim center. If your vehicle can't be driven or it isn't convenient to take it to a drive-in claim center, let us know. A claims service specialist will review the facts of the accident, your coverage and the appraisal of damages, and send you a check for the amount to which you are entitled. Some customers prefer to have the repair work done and then to have Arbella pay the shop directly. If that is the case, you should ask your claims service specialist for details about the completed work claim form procedure.

Plymouth Rock Customers

If you have Collision Coverage Plymouth Rock offers their Door-To-Door coverage. The fastest way to start your claim is to call into their claims service center at 888-324-1620. The claims center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and they will set up your damage appraisal appointment. If you are electing their Door-to-Door service you will need to tell the service center representative which Door-To-Door shop you wish to use. To select a Door-to-Door shop click here. It is important you still call in your claim to us!

Getting Your Car Fixed

Automobile companies have a preferred shop list. You are under no obligation to use their shops. You can bring your car to the shop of your choice. However, if you use the company referral shop, they will guarantee the quality of the repairs.

What if the Check Isn't Enough to Cover the Repairs?

Sometimes it's not possible for the appraiser to accurately assess all the damage. If there is hidden or missed damage, your body shop will contact your company to get a supplemental appraisal and, if appropriate, we'll send you a check for the difference.