It seems like insult added to injury, you are in an accident or your car is stolen; now you have to deal with an inflexible insurer.

The procedure for claims after a car accident is supposed to be straightforward. After you make the claim, preferably on a comprehensible form , an adjuster estimates the costs to restore your car and the insurance company writes you a check for that amount. Regrettably, the process isn't always so simple for millions of people who file claims each year.

Here are some things you can do to get claims settled as fast and as smoothly as possible:

Take note of the location, time, weather, road conditions, and lighting; you never know what will be relevant later. It is a good idea to keep a disposable camera in your car's glove compartment, so you can snap pictures of an accident scene.

If a camera is not available, you can make a rough drawing of damage to vehicles and property, and describe any apparent injuries and other pertinent facts. Acquire and maintain a copy of the police report for yourself as well.

Promptly contact your insurer. The insurance company could negate your policy if you don't. Be sure to also report in writing to make sure that your rights are protected under law. Verify your policy- identify what coverage you have and don't have so you know what you can claim. Talk with your agent beforehand about the claims process and what information the company may need. Verify the deadlines as well. Some policies have time limits for each step of the claims' process.

If your auto is stolen, your initial response should be similar to any auto accident. First, have a police officer visit the scene and file a police report. Try to have your license plate number and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for the police. If the Registration is stolen along with the car, try to obtain a duplicate from the Transport Authorities without delay. Then notify your car insurance company right away. Auto insurance claims for stolen vehicles always take longer to process, because the police are given a reasonable amount of time to locate the stolen car. Stay in touch with the police regarding the development of the investigation. If the car is not traced after a realistic period, get a report from the police to that effect. If the vehicle is traced, tell the company immediately.

Then be sure to track your claim: acquire your claim number and contact the insurance company or claims adjuster for updates. Some car insurers have the ability to let you track your claim's condition online. Sometimes writing a letter to the adjuster or a supervisor can get things moving. Be persistent, but not unbearable.

Double check your policy for rental coverage to have transport while waiting. If the mishap wasn't your fault, you can get a rental auto while your car is being repaired, paid for by the other driver's insurance company. If the accident was your fault, you need to have rental reimbursement coverage. If your car was stolen and you have comprehensive insurance, your insurer will probably award you a specific amount each day for a rental.

These tips can help you get through the claims process and back on the road faster.