About 3 weeks ago, I got rear-ended while stopped at a light. It was a small bump, and there wasn’t much visible damage, so I took the other driver’s insurance details and called my own insurance (Farmers) the next day since it happened at 9PM. We decided the other driver’s insurance (Anchor) would handle the claim because they were at fault.
Today, Farmers gave me the claim number and told me to contact Anchor myself, but they didn’t really explain why or what to say. Now I’m feeling a bit unsure—shouldn’t Farmers be managing this for me?
A few things that might matter:
My car wasn’t technically on the policy at the time of the accident. It was reported, but the paperwork didn’t go through until a day after. Farmers said this would only cause some delays.
There were no witnesses or police reports filed. We just took pictures and exchanged info nearby in a parking lot.
The damage isn’t obvious, but since my car is new and has sensors, my agent said to file a claim. Farmers asked me to wait to get an estimate, though.
I’ve already given a recorded statement to Farmers.
I haven’t spoken with the other driver since the accident.
I’m just nervous about calling Anchor because I feel like they’ll try to twist my words to avoid covering the claim. I don’t even know if there’s something specific I should be saying that I haven’t already told Farmers.
Am I overthinking this? This is my first time dealing with an insurance claim, and I can’t shake the feeling that I might have messed something up along the way.
In my experience with accidents where someone else hit me, my own insurance didn’t do much since it wasn’t my fault. I had to call the other person’s insurance and file the claim myself. It wasn’t too hard—they were ready for my call because the accident was already reported. Just don’t take what they say as the final word; you might need to push for things like a rental car if your car needs repairs. Sorry this happened, but I’m glad you weren’t hurt. Good luck!
First off, don’t be hard on yourself. Accidents are overwhelming, and it’s normal to feel that way.
Your insurance company is probably just following the process by having you call the other driver’s insurance directly. They may end up filing for reimbursement on your behalf, especially if the other driver is at fault. Since you have all the info you need, share it with Anchor and explain that Farmers has already been notified. If Anchor gives you any trouble, let Farmers know—they can step in to help.
From what you’ve described, it sounds like things will work out. This is your first claim, and what you’re going through isn’t unusual. Take a few deep breaths, and remember it’ll take a bit of time but should be fine. Feel free to reach out if you need more guidance!
@Luca
Thank you for the advice! I actually thought about letting it go since the damage is so minor, but it’s a brand new car, so I’d rather play it safe.
I’m in California, by the way. I just hope the other driver doesn’t try to twist things around and make it look like my fault (that happened to my dad once). As long as that doesn’t happen, I’ll be okay.
@Blake
Makes sense. With a new car, it’s best to be cautious. Farmers should make sure you’re covered, and they’ll have your back if the other driver tries to shift blame. Just keep your insurance looped in, and it should go smoothly.
Former Farmers agent here. Farmers (or any company, really) can’t do much unless you file the claim directly on your own policy. They can’t speak for you about what happened. The other insurance company isn’t obligated to you directly unless there’s a legal judgment. But they usually prefer to handle things directly to avoid court.
From what you’ve said, since you have a claim open, you might not need to call the other insurance after all. My apologies for the confusion—just saw that after reading again!