Filing an auto insurance claim is something no one ever wants to do. It means something bad has happened to your vehicle, and it now needs to be repaired or replaced. An accident or theft is very upsetting, and not knowing what to do afterward can just add to that stress. Having a checklist, and keeping a copy in your glove box, will help you get through the process of filing a claim.

Do you need to file a claim?

This is the first question you need to ask yourself before you even pick up the phone to call your insurance company. Insurance rates are based on many factors, one of them being risk. Even if you're in an accident that wasn't your fault, or your vehicle is stolen, your insurance company will consider you more of a risk and will most likely raise your rates when you file a claim.

But what about minor damage like a broken tail light, a deep scratch in the paint, or a door ding that occurred in a parking lot? If the damage is going to cost less to repair than your deductible, it's not worth filing a claim and potentially increasing your premiums. You would have to pay the deductible anyway, so paying out of pocket to repair the damage is really the best way to go when the damage is very minor.

Call the police

If you discover your car has been stolen, call the police immediately. The sooner they begin investigating, the better chance you have of getting your car back. A police report must be filed in order for any investigation to begin.

If you're in an accident and anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. If no one is injured, call the non-emergency number for the police. It's a good idea to have it programmed into your cell phone. If you plan to file a claim, you must have a police report on file.

Call your insurance company

Once the police are on the way, call your insurance company's claim number. The sooner your start the claim process, the sooner your car will be repaired or replaced.

Even if the accident isn't your fault, notifying your insurance company will allow them to begin acting as your advocate. They will deal with the other driver's insurance company on your behalf, and ensure you are treated fairly.

Keep good records

If your cell phone has a camera, take pictures of the accident scene if possible. Record the damage to all vehicles involved, and make note of the other cars' license plates. It's unfortunate, but people sometimes panic and leave the scene of an accident before the police arrive. The more information you have about the accident and those involved, the better protected you will be.

Assuming all involved parties remain present at the scene, exchange contact information with them. The easiest way to do this is to ask to see the other driver's insurance card, and simply copy the information from it.

After the police have made a report about the accident, get a copy. If this is not available to you at the accident scene, you may get a copy from the courthouse within a few days. Accident reports are public record, and are available to anyone for a small fee.

At some point after the accident, you may receive a call from the other driver's insurance company. They will ask you questions, and the call will be recorded. Make a note of the date and time of the call, and notify your insurance company of the conversation.

Fill out and return paperwork promptly

Your insurance company will most likely require you to fill out claim forms. Be sure to fill them out as completely as possible, and return them to the company in a timely manner.

Get your car repaired

Your insurance company will direct you to a location to have your vehicle repaired. They usually have relationships established with local body shops and mechanics, and using one of these locations rather than one you find on your own will speed the claim process.

If you have a provision in your auto insurance policy for a rental car, the company will also assist you in securing one. If you don't have this provision, but the other driver was at fault, their insurance many cover this cost until your car is repaired.

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