How can I file a Safeco Insurance claim from Alaska?

To file an auto insurance claim against someone else, the driver needs to gather the other driver's information, take pictures of the scene, report the accident to the police, contact their insurance, and then wait for other driver's insurance to pay.

How To File An Auto Insurance Claim Against Someone Else... read full answer

1. Collect important information from the other driver at the scene

Be sure to get their name, address, insurance policy details, and driver’s license and plate numbers.

2. Take pictures at the scene

Document the damage to each vehicle and the entire accident with both cars as they sit immediately after, if possible.

3. Call the police and gather contact information and statements from witnesses

Depending on state laws, you may be required to file a police report. The police will determine who is at-fault and issue citations as needed.

4. Contact your insurance company as soon as reasonably possible

Notifying your insurer about a possible claim is required under the terms of your policy. They will follow up and represent you with the other driver’s insurance company after you provide the information you collected at the scene. The insurance companies will determine fault, taking into account police reports, statements, and physical evidence.

5. Wait for the other driver’s insurance company to determine fault

If the other driver’s insurance company determines their policyholder is at-fault, the insurer will settle your claim. If they deny your claim, you can file with your own insurer as long as you have collision coverage.

You do not have to contact the other driver’s insurance company to resolve your claim. It is the other driver’s responsibility to notify their own insurer about a possible claim, and your insurance company will contact them on your behalf anyway. Most insurers try to resolve claims within 30 days, but it could take less or more time than that.

Safeco insurance rates go up by an average of 41% after an accident. Drivers who have Safeco accident forgiveness will not see their car insurance rates go up at all after their first accident in 5 years, however. Even if the accident can’t be forgiven, it will only affect your insurance rate for ... read full answer3-5 years, depending on your state.

The exact amount that premiums go up after an accident depends on a few factors, including who was at fault, how much damage was caused, and the policyholder’s driving and claims history. In general, at-fault accidents or severe accidents that lead to expensive insurance claims increase rates more than minor or not-at-fault wrecks. Repeat offenders also see relatively large rate hikes.

To learn more, check out WalletHub’s complete review of Safeco car insurance, as well as our guide to accident forgiveness.

No, Safeco and Liberty Mutual are not the same company, though Safeco was purchased by Liberty Mutual in 2008. While the two companies are related and not completely independent of one another, Safeco still sells its own insurance policies.

Having Liberty Mutual as its parent company means that Safeco has strong financial backing and can focus exclusively on selling personal insurance policies. To learn more about these insurers, check out WalletHub’s reviews for ... read full answerSafeco and Liberty Mutual.