Although filing an auto insurance claim is definitely something you want to avoid, you never know when you will have to do it. After all, accidents are unpredictable, so it's important to be prepared. Many drivers aren't quite clear on how the process of filing an auto insurance claim works, which means they aren't prepared to got through the process. Here are three ways to prepare yourself:

Realize Your Part:

Although your auto insurance company is there to help you with the claims process, it's also important that you understand your own role, which is going to help keep the process moving. Your first job is to report any accidents that you are involved in. This includes filing a police report, which is important for gathering evidence as to which driver was at fault in the situation. From here, you must contact your insurance company to let them know about the accident. They will ask for details about the other driver's insurance, so be sure that you take this down, as well. Once you've done this, it's important that you stay in contact with your insurance company until the claims process is done. This means answering their phone calls and providing any further information that they ask for. 

Know Your Coverage: 

Obviously, you only want to file a claim if it's covered by your auto insurance and if the damages are going to cost more than the deductible to repair. If you file a claim because a tree fell on your car, but you don't have comprehensive coverage, then all this is going to do is hurt you in the end because not only will you have to pay out of pocket completely to make repairs, but your insurance rates will also go up. If you are covered for any type of accident you are involved in, but the damages are going to cost less than your deductible, then it's not worth filing a claim in this situation either. 

Be Ready for Your Deductible:

When you purchase auto insurance, always take note of your deductible and make changes when necessary. Be sure that you set aside enough money to pay this deductible in case of an emergency. This way, you can get started on the claims process. If you aren't able to afford the deductible, then you can't more forward with repairs. Be sure that you lower the deductible when needed so that you can afford it. If you know you are able to afford more than your current deductible, you should also consider raising it, which will lower your insurance rates. 

When you know these three ways to be prepared for making an auto insurance claim, you can be sure that the process isn't quite as stressful. To learn more, visit a website like http://esiinsurance.com/.