Following the below steps will help you to understand what is going on when you are making a claim against your auto company.
The process can be quite confusing and time consuming but double-checking the paperwork you send in as well as doing your research with make the whole process smoother.

1. Inform your insurance agent as soon as possible as to what the situation is, it does not matter whether it is your fault or not.
   The most important thing is to find out whether you are covered for this loss.
   It does not matter if the accident appears minor, the most important thing is that you let your company know about the incident, so that they have a record of it.
   
2. You then need to ask your agent what the next steps are and what forms or documents are needed to support your claim (make sure you get all the documents you need to fill in otherwise it can draw the whole process out).
   Your insurance company will at least require that a proof of claim form be filled in and this will usually need to be accompanied by the police report of the incident.
   
3. Make sure to complete the claim forms very carefully and to double-check everything, and also remember to keep copies of the forms for your own records.
   Get the names and contact details of everyone you deal with and any copies/reports that are related to the accident.
   
4. Make sure to ask your insurance company the following questions:
   • Is there a time limit on providing the claim form and/or reports?
   • Is there a time limit for resolving disputes?
   • If I need to give more information is there a time limit for this also?
   • Do I need to get estimates from a mechanic for fixing the car?
   • When will the insurance company contact me?
   • Will I be provided with a rental car in the meantime?
5. Make note that in each state there are different regulations that insurance companies have to stick too, so if you have any queries or complaints do a search on the internet and contact them.