Claims FYI
What to Do if you are in an Auto Accident
Even the safest drivers may be involved in an auto accident.
Knowledge of what to do after the accident can make the experience less frightening and
decrease the chance of unnecessary delays and complications. What follows is a list of
items that we hope will help.
At the accident scene...
1. Stop the car and move it to a safe position on the road.
2. Check for injuries. Your life and health are more important than possible damage to
your auto.
3. Call the police no matter how minor the incident. If there are injuries the police
will contact the appropriate medical assistance.
4. When the authorities arrive cooperate with them completely. Find out where to obtain
a copy of the accident report the police will file. Also, take down the case number and
the name and badge numbers of the police and emergency personnel.
5. Write down the names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses and those involved in
the accident. Take down the license plate numbers, insurance information, and the makes
and models of all vehicles. Make note of damages to any vehicle involved in the accident.
Also include details regarding circumstances of the accident such as weather and road
condition.
How to report a claim to IFA...
1. Phone your insurance agent or IFA company representative
as soon as possible. IFA's claim number is (732) 815-2103.
Supply the representative with as much information as you
can. At a minimum, they will need your IFA Policy number,
and details of the accident.
2. Once initial contact has been made we will require a police report. The agent or the
insured can supply this. Your cooperation is both essential and required in order for us
to bring your claim to its final resolution. IFA will represent you if a claim is brought
against you and attempt to resolve that claim or defend you if you are sued according to
the terms and conditions of the policy. Any copies of legal or medical papers that you
receive in connection with your loss should be sent as you receive them. If contacted by
an attorney for another party refer them to your IFA representative.
3. Keep records of your expenses and paperwork. Expenses you incur may be reimbursed
under your policy. Make sure you keep copies or originals of all paperwork. You may need
to refer to these in the future.
What happens after the claim is reported...
1. Once we receive the items mentioned above we immediately assign an appraiser to
assess the damage to your car. We will also send acknowledgement to your attention that a
claim has been initiated. This acknowledgement contains some very important information,
such as your claim number and claims representative. It is important to have this
information handy when calling with any questions regarding your claim.
2. The appraiser will then send his assessment to IFA overnight. At that point we
process a check and send it to you with a copy of the appraisal. If you do not have a body
shop to repair your car we can recommend an IFA Recommended Auto
Shop. If your car cannot be fixed we will pay you the cash value of the vehicle as
determined by the procedures approved by the New Jersey Department of Insurance.
Good communications and cooperation are essential to getting your claim resolved as
quickly and fairly as possible. Our representatives are there to explain the process every
step of the way.
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