How to File a Successful Auto Insurance Claim

Even the most careful driver can be involved in an accident, requiring that he or she file an auto insurance claim. Consumers who are familiar with the claims process will have less trouble filing a claim in their time of need. By working with a Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc. agent in Little Falls, MN, consumers can gain a better understanding of how to file a successful auto insurance claim.

Review Coverage

Before filing a claim, consumers should review their policy to make sure they’re fully aware of their coverage. They should know such details as amount of deductible, rental vehicle coverage and insurance limits for property damage. They should also inquire if their insurer has time limits on when to file a claim in order to get it in on time.  

Steps to Placing a Claim

Consumers are responsible to inform their insurance company when they have been involved in an accident. Their insurer will assign an adjuster to investigate the details of their accident, determine who was at fault and recommend a course of action for vehicle repairs and/or payment of medical treatment, if needed.

Some insurance companies require that car repair estimates be made at designated sites chosen by the insurer. Others allow consumers to receive repair estimates at their own vehicle repair shop.

Once a repair estimate has been done, a report is sent to the insurance adjuster for approval. If both the insured and insurer agree to the estimate for repair costs, work can begin to repair the damaged car.  

By choosing their own repair shop, consumers can have greater confidence that the work will be done right. They should request their body shop use only EOM parts for repairs to receive optimum performance from their vehicle once repairs are done. Upon completion of repairs, the insurance company will pay the bill (minus the insured’s deductible).

Even if the insured was not at fault for the accident, he can request that his insurance company cover repair costs to speed up his claim and get repair work done. The insurer can recuperate the funds later on from the insurance company of the driver at fault.  

Working with a qualified agent from Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc. in Little Falls, MN facilitates the claims process so consumers can get back on the road without delay. To learn more about auto insurance coverage and claims, contact a Hanneken Insurance Agency agent today. 

Gun Safety in Your Home

If you live in or around Little Falls, MN, you may hunt or shoot recreationally. Firearms can be deadly if they are not handled and stored correctly, so use these tips from Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc. to avoid a tragedy when you have firearms in your home. 

  • If you’ve never owned or handled a gun before, take a basic safety class before buying one. You can contact your county law enforcement to find out what is available in your area. These classes may cover the laws surrounding weapons, how to handle them safely, and your responsibilities as a gun-owner.
  • All weapons should always be stored unloaded and locked up. Even if you don’t have children in your home, you never know who could enter your house when you’re not around. A suicidal relative or an intruder could use your weapon with a tragic result. Simple tools like trigger locks and gun safes can keep people safe.
  • Alcohol and firearms do not mix. Never use a weapon when you have been drinking, nor should you allow anyone else access to your weapons while under the influence of alcohol or other types of mind-altering substances.
  • Talk to your kids about your firearms. Rather than simply forbidding them to touch the guns, let them ask questions. This shouldn’t be a one-time conversation, but rather an ongoing dialog. If your child wants to learn about firearms, take them to a safe place to shoot, and be sure that they understand that the only time they should use a firearm is if you are around and have given your permission. Do not allow them to know the combination to your gun safe, and do not depend on their obedience to keep them safe. Kids can be impulsive, and you should still keep weapons locked up even if you think your child understands the risks.
  • Learn to shoot safely, using eye and ear protection. Also, be aware of what is behind your target.

If you live in Little Falls, MN or the surrounding area and have questions about homeowner’s insurance, you can contact Hanneken Insurance Agency Inc.