USAA Auto Insurance Claims: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a member of the military or a veteran, chances are you’ve heard of USAA. The company was founded in 1922 by a group of Army officers who wanted to insure each other’s vehicles. Today, USAA is one of the top auto insurance providers in the country, known for its exceptional customer service and competitive rates. But even the best insurance companies can’t prevent accidents from happening, and when they do, you need to know what to do. In this article, we’ll walk you through the USAA auto insurance claims process, step by step.

How to File a USAA Auto Insurance Claim

If you’ve been in an accident, the first thing you should do is make sure everyone is safe. Call 911 if anyone is injured, and move your vehicle to a safe location if possible. Then, follow these steps to file a USAA auto insurance claim:

1. Contact USAA as soon as possible. You can report your claim online, through the USAA mobile app, or by calling 1-800-531-8722. Be prepared to provide your policy number, the date and time of the accident, and a brief description of what happened.
2. Gather information. You’ll need to provide USAA with the names and contact information of everyone involved in the accident, including any witnesses. You should also take photos of the damage to your vehicle and any other vehicles involved, as well as the surrounding area.
3. Get an estimate. USAA may require you to get an estimate from an approved repair shop. They may also send an adjuster to inspect the damage.
4. Get a rental car. If your vehicle is not drivable, USAA will provide you with a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
5. Wait for the claim to be processed. USAA will investigate the accident and determine who is at fault. They will then negotiate with the other party’s insurance company to determine how much they will pay.
6. Get your vehicle repaired. Once USAA has determined how much they will pay, you can take your vehicle to an approved repair shop to be fixed.

Note that if you have collision coverage, USAA will pay for the repairs to your vehicle regardless of who is at fault. If you have liability coverage only, USAA will only pay for the other party’s damages if you are found to be at fault.

What to Expect from USAA’s Claims Process

USAA is known for its exceptional customer service, and that extends to their claims process. When you file a claim with USAA, you can expect:

• 24/7 claims support, so you can report your claim whenever it’s convenient for you.
• A dedicated claims representative who will guide you through the process and answer any questions you have.
• Fair and transparent claims handling. USAA will investigate the accident and determine who is at fault based on the evidence.
• A streamlined claims process. USAA uses technology to make the claims process as efficient as possible.
• A satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the way your claim was handled, USAA will do everything they can to make it right.

FAQ

What if I’m in an accident outside of the US?

If you’re in an accident outside of the US, you can still file a claim with USAA. However, the process may be different depending on the country you’re in. USAA has international claims offices in several countries, so be sure to check their website for more information.

What if I’m hit by an uninsured driver?

If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, USAA will pay for your damages up to the limits of your policy’s uninsured motorist coverage. If the other driver is later found to be at fault, USAA will try to recover the money they paid you from the other driver.

What if my vehicle is totaled?

If your vehicle is totaled, USAA will pay you the actual cash value of your vehicle at the time of the accident, minus your deductible. If you still owe money on your vehicle, USAA will pay the lender first and then send you any remaining money.

Can I choose my own repair shop?

Yes, you can choose your own repair shop. However, if you choose a shop that is not approved by USAA, you may be responsible for any additional costs.

Will my premiums go up if I file a claim?

Your premiums may go up if you file a claim, but it depends on several factors, including the amount of the claim, who was at fault, and your driving history. USAA takes a number of factors into account when determining your premiums, so it’s difficult to say for sure whether your premiums will go up.

Conclusion

Filing an auto insurance claim can be a stressful experience, but with USAA, you can rest easy knowing that you’re in good hands. USAA’s claims process is designed to be as efficient and transparent as possible, so you can get back on the road as quickly as possible. If you’re a member of the military or a veteran, we highly recommend considering USAA for your auto insurance needs.