Car accidents happen in an instant, and the aftermath can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Between medical treatment, car repairs, and insurance questions, it’s easy to wonder where to start.
If Allstate is the insurance company involved—either yours or the other driver’s—knowing how to file a claim properly will make the process far less stressful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it.
Focus on Safety and Gather Information
Check yourself and others for injuries first. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Even if injuries don’t appear serious, it’s wise to have the police respond so an official report can be created.
If possible, move vehicles out of traffic and turn on hazard lights. Then gather as much information as you can: names, phone numbers, insurance details, license plates, and photos of the damage and accident scene. These details will be critical for your claim later.
Get Medical Attention
Some accident-related injuries don’t show up right away. Whiplash, concussions, or back pain can appear hours or even days later. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible protects your health and ensures there’s a medical record that supports your claim if you need treatment.
Report the Accident to Allstate
You report a claim in several ways, including the following:
- Call 1-800-ALLSTATE (1-800-255-7828) to speak with a representative.
- Log in to the Allstate website and file a claim online.
- Use the Allstate mobile app to submit photos, track repairs, and check claim updates.
- If you’re not an Allstate customer but the other driver is, you can still file as a guest through their website.
Allstate recommends reporting a claim quickly, ideally within 24 hours.
Provide Clear, Accurate Information
When you report your claim, be prepared with the essentials: the date and location of the accident, the other driver’s information, the police report number, photos, and your policy number if you’re a policyholder. If you’ve sought medical treatment, keep records of visits, bills, and diagnoses. Organized documentation goes a long way toward speeding up the process.
What Happens After Filing
Once your claim is submitted, Allstate will assign you a claims adjuster. Their role is to investigate what happened and determine how much the company will pay. The adjuster may review the police report, inspect your car, request repair estimates, or ask for additional documents.
It’s important to understand what your coverage includes. Collision coverage pays for your repairs even if you’re at fault, liability coverage applies if you caused the accident, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance.
Estimates, Negotiations, and Settlement
The adjuster will usually provide a repair estimate, and after reviewing medical expenses and repair costs, Allstate may offer you a settlement.
Don’t feel pressured to accept the first offer. Insurance companies often make quick, low offers to resolve claims fast. Make sure your medical treatment is complete and that you understand the full extent of your expenses before agreeing to settle. Once you accept, you may not be able to go back for additional compensation.
Be Careful With What You Say
It’s natural to want to explain what happened, but stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver, the police, or the adjuster. Avoid speculating or admitting fault. You are also not required to give a recorded statement immediately. You should consult with an attorney first.
Contact the Northbrook Car Accident Lawyers at Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Filing a claim with Allstate may feel daunting after an already stressful accident, but following these steps helps keep the process under control. Acting quickly, staying organized, and making informed decisions can make a big difference in the outcome.
If your injuries are serious or you feel that Allstate isn’t offering a fair settlement, you don’t have to handle it alone. The team at Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers has years of experience guiding accident victims through the claims process and can protect your rights every step of the way.
Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers
601 Skokie Blvd Suite 401
Northbrook, IL 60062
(847) 513-9582
