The Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Insurance Claims

The Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid When Filing Insurance Claims

Filing an insurance claim can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re dealing with damage, an accident, or a sudden loss. At Cokato Insurance Center, we’ve seen how the claim process can either go smoothly or become a headache. Knowing common pitfalls can make all the difference when it comes to receiving timely and adequate compensation. Here are the top five mistakes people make when filing insurance claims—and how to avoid them.

1. Delaying the Claim Process

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long to file their claim. Whether it's a minor incident or a significant loss, reporting it promptly can impact the outcome of your claim. Many policies require you to report an incident within a specific timeframe, and delays can sometimes result in denied claims.

Tip: Contact your insurance agent or carrier as soon as possible after an incident. Prompt reporting shows responsibility and helps ensure you meet any necessary deadlines. Cokato Insurance Center can guide you through the initial steps and help expedite the process.

2. Not Documenting the Damage Properly

Proper documentation is crucial for a successful insurance claim. Failing to capture the full extent of the damage or loss can result in a lower payout or, in some cases, denial of the claim. Many people assume they can describe the damage verbally, but insurance adjusters rely on concrete evidence.

Tip: Take clear photos and videos of the damage right after the incident. Make sure to capture different angles and include any relevant details that might support your claim. It’s also helpful to keep receipts, repair estimates, and any other documentation that supports the value of the items or repairs.

3. Throwing Away Damaged Items Too Soon

While it might feel natural to clean up or dispose of damaged items right away, doing so before an adjuster has seen the evidence can weaken your case. Adjusters often need to inspect the damaged items as part of their assessment.

Tip: Before discarding any damaged property, check with your insurance provider. Many adjusters will request that you keep items until they have had a chance to review them, so they can accurately assess the damage and determine appropriate compensation.

4. Underestimating the Importance of a Detailed Claim

Submitting a claim that lacks specific information can lead to back-and-forth with the insurer, resulting in unnecessary delays. Sometimes, people unintentionally omit details or fail to provide a clear, concise account of the incident.

Tip: Provide as much detail as possible when filing your claim. Include information like the date, time, location, and a full description of what happened. Being clear, organized, and thorough from the start will help speed up the process. If you’re unsure about what to include, our agents at Cokato Insurance Center can guide you.

5. Not Knowing Your Policy’s Coverage and Limitations

Many people assume their policy covers everything, only to find out too late that there are limitations or exclusions. Overlooking the fine print can be costly, especially if you discover that certain damages or types of losses aren’t covered as you expected.

Tip: Review your insurance policy periodically, especially before filing a claim. Understanding what’s covered and what’s excluded will prevent surprises and help you set realistic expectations for your claim. At Cokato Insurance Center, we’re here to answer any questions about your policy coverage and help you navigate any uncertainties.

Need Assistance?

Filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be complicated, but avoiding these common mistakes can make a world of difference. By acting promptly, documenting thoroughly, and understanding your coverage, you’ll be in the best position to get the compensation you need with minimal hassle.

If you have any questions about your coverage or need assistance with a claim, don’t hesitate to contact us at 320-286-6633. Our team is here to support you through every step of the process.