Need to file an insurance claim? Here’s what you need to know.

When you’ve suffered a loss, no matter how big or small, it’s never easy. In the moment, emotion can often take over and cloud your judgement. You’ll have some questions you need to answer. What do you do now? Who do you need to contact first? What are your obligations as a business owner? Whether it’s water damage caused by a flood, a fire, a car accident, or another type of loss, these situations can be stressful and overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. We thought we’d try to make things a little easier by taking some of the guess work out of the equation. Follow these four steps when you think you have a claim. You can even download and print the infographic below; it could come in handy!

4 steps to take immediately after you suffer a loss

If you find yourself up to your ankles in water, in the front seat of a fender bender, or in the midst of another type of loss, there are some important things to remember that can help make the process a little smoother.

1. Stay calm and call 9-1-1. If you have any reason to suspect criminal activity or think that someone involved in the incident requires medical attention, call 9-1-1 as soon as you can. Try to stay calm, be courteous and avoid arguing with others involved.
2. Don’t engage in settlement talk. It’s important that you only discuss the details of the incident with police or other emergency personnel, along with your insurance claims team.
3. Take notes, witness testimonials and photographs. The more information you have on what happened, the easier it will be to file a business claim when you call your insurer. Document everything in full detail, including the date, time and location. Gather contact information from all those present at the time of the incident. If you have a camera or your smartphone handy, take photographs and videos of the scene.
4. Call your insurer. Once you’ve done everything you can to manage the situation, it’s important to take all the information you collected and contact your insurer. They will put the claims process in motion, and they can also provide further advice on next steps, too. If you’re a TruShield Insurance customer, call 1.855.629.1213 or visit www.trushieldinsurance.ca/claims

What NOT to do

1. Don’t admit fault or liability.
2. Never discuss settlements with other parties involved.
3. Don’t interfere in any negotiations for settlement or in any legal proceedings.

While you can’t stop bad things from happening, you can try to be prepared for these common small business insurance risks. It’s also a good idea to review your policy if your business has changed in any way to ensure your business is covered in the way that you expect.

Remember to download our helpful claims process tip sheet to keep handy in case your small business ever experiences a loss.

TruShield can be in your corner

At TruShield, we’re dedicated to providing all of our customers with consistent service to ensure that all claims are handled as professionally and fairly as possible. If you’re a TruShield customer and are ever unsure about something before, during or after the claims process, you can reach our claims department by visiting our website, or directly at 1.855.629.1213. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

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This blog is provided for information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and will not be responsible for any loss arising out of reliance on the information. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply to coverage. See policy for details.