After an insured event
Prepare a claim file: motor claim
The priority is to keep people and the scene safe, then preserve neutral observations. A checklist determines neither fault nor payment and does not replace directions from police, emergency services or the insurer.
Careful immediate steps
- Stop, move to safety and alert emergency services or police when the situation requires it; follow their directions.
- Do not assign blame or move anything except for safety or as directed by the authorities.
- When safe, preserve wide and detailed views and useful contact details without changing original files.
Facts to preserve
- Observed date, time, place, weather and road conditions
- Positions, vehicles and visible damage without assuming a cause
- Witnesses and attending services with their details
- Timeline of safety measures, calls and movements
Check in the policy
- Liability, collision, partial casco or parking-damage cover
- Deductible, insured value and limits
- Approved repairer, prior inspection, recovery and replacement vehicle
- Notification duties and exclusions under the relevant policy
Important limitation
Safety and legal duties come before documentation. Never alter a scene, photograph or statement to strengthen a case. Police make their findings and the insurer assesses cover under the policy.