At Shory, we believe in transparency - and that includes how we handle car insurance claims. Many policyholders wonder what really goes on after they report an accident. How do insurance companies decide whether to approve or deny a claim? Let’s walk you through the journey from the moment an accident is reported to when the claim is paid out.
Step 1: The Initial Report
The claims process begins when a policyholder notifies us (if their car insurance was bought from Shory) or their insurer about the accident with a report. This report includes details like:
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Time and location of the accident
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Description of what happened
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Parties involved and their contact/insurance information
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Photos or videos of the damage
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Police report (if applicable)
The faster and clearer this information is, the quicker we can act.
Step 2: Assigning a Claims Adjuster
Once we receive your claim, it’s assigned to a claims adjuster - a trained professional who investigates the case. Their job is to assess the validity and value of your claim based on all available evidence.
These professionals are trained to act with both empathy and efficiency to ensure that your case is handled fairly and swiftly.
Step 3: The Investigation Process
This is where things go deeper. The adjuster will:
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Contact involved parties and witnesses
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Review medical records (if injuries occurred)
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Examine vehicle damage (via photos or in-person)
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Cross-check facts from the police report
In some complex cases, we might also use specialized tools like accident reconstruction software or surveillance (especially for suspected fraud).
Step 4: Determining Liability
Understanding who was at fault is crucial. It affects how much is paid and by whom. In many cases, both parties share some responsibility - known as “comparative negligence.” This is carefully calculated based on facts, not assumptions.
Step 5: Settlement Offer
Once liability is determined and costs assessed (repairs, medical bills, etc.), we present a settlement offer. This outlines what your insurance covers and what you’re entitled to.
We at Shory aim to be as clear and generous as possible within the bounds of your policy.
Step 6: Claim Approval and Payout
Once you accept the offer, we proceed with the payout. Whether it's reimbursing you for repairs or covering third-party damages, our goal is to close the case without delay.
What Can Slow Down a Claim?
We encourage our policyholders to be proactive and thorough when reporting accidents to help avoid unnecessary hiccups. Some common mistakes that can delay your claim processing may include:
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Incomplete documentation
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Disputes over fault
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High-value claims needing in-depth reviews
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Fraud investigations
Final Thoughts
At Shory, we know car accidents can be stressful events. That’s why we’re committed to making the claims process smooth, transparent, and fair. By understanding how investigations work, you’ll feel more empowered the next time life throws a curveball.
