If you have Allstate auto insurance, you should feel like you’re in good hands. After all it’s the insurance giant’s popular tagline. You expect Allstate to be there when it’s time to file an accident claim. You’ve been religiously making your monthly payments. 

While the essential steps for filing an Allstate car accident claim are pretty simple. Usually all you’re doing is contacting your agent, filling out some forms, and submitting supporting evidence. However questions can still pop up even when the claim process is pretty straightforward.

To help make the accident claim process just a little easier, we’re answering some of your commonly asked questions.

What Should I Do To Make a Claim After a Car Accident?

Allstate makes it pretty easy to file an accident claim if you’re an existing customer. If you’re the injured party and not an Allstate customer, the steps are a little bit different. Allstate policyholders can skip phone calls and in-person appointments. You can go straight to your online account page. This will let you know if you can fast-track your claim using the handy QuickFoto tool.

The tool lets you upload photos of your vehicle damage to the mobile app. Think of it as a handy way to fast-track your accident claim through the approval process. If you’re not eligible for QuickFoto, no worries. You’re simply contacting the insurance company. Chances are, you can still file your insurance claim online. The only difference is it’s going to take a little longer to process your claim.

Non-Allstate customers are also going to need to reach out to the insurer. They usually can’t file accident claims online, at least initially.

Can I Check the Status of My Allstate Vehicle Accident Claim?

Waiting to find out if your accident claim is approved can be excruciating. Your bills are probably pouring in, even minor fender benders can cause significant vehicle damage. If your car accident results in injuries, you’re also dealing with medical expenses. You’re counting on your insurance check to help you get out of this financial nightmare.

Usually, insurance companies have around 30 days to review, investigate, and make a decision about your claim. Sitting by the phone or constantly checking your email for a month is stressful. You can’t speed up the claim process, no matter how many times you call or email. Yep, this can be a little disheartening. However, you can keep an eye on your claim’s status. Your Allstate account or the mobile app usually reflects the status of your pending claim.

If you’re not with Allstate, you’re going to need to call the insurance company. Only policyholders can use the website or mobile app.

Will I Have to Pay a Deductible to Settle My Insurance Claim?

If you’re not an Allstate customer, you can skip over this question. Deductibles only apply to policyholders. A deductible is pretty standard with most car insurance policies. Your deductible is simply the amount you’re required to cover.

There really isn’t a set deductible amount. The cost typically depends on your policy. Usually, if you’re paying low monthly premiums, you have a higher deductible. The opposite is true if you’re paying more each month. So, if you’re filing an accident claim for $5,000 and you have a $500 deductible, you’ll receive $4,500. Your policy’s coverage limits can also come into play. Your claim can’t be higher than the policy’s coverage limits.

How Long Does It Take For My Claim Information to Update?

Unlike some insurance carriers who seem to take their time updating claim information, Allstate is pretty on the ball. You should see information on a newly submitted claim showing up within one or two days. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to see if your accident claim is approved or denied. Remember, typically, insurance companies have 30 days or so to respond to an accident claim.

However, if you don’t see that your accident claim is pending on your account webpage, go ahead and contact your Allstate insurance agent. Every now and then a delay pops up and it’s a good idea to check.

What Should I Do If My Allstate Insurance Claim Is Denied?

Okay, having an accident claim denied is stressful. You’re worried about paying accident-related expenses. If your Allstate accident claim is denied. You can file an appeal. However before you start this legal process. It’s a good idea to work with an experienced accident attorney. Your attorney can handle the appeal and help ensure you can recover compensation for your car accident.