An “insurance claim” is a request for benefits or payment under a policy. One accident can involve several claims at once, and each may have different evidence, limits, deductibles, and decision-makers.
Common claim types
- Third-party liability claim: made against a person or company alleged to have caused injury or property damage.
- Collision claim: made under your own policy for collision-related vehicle damage, usually subject to a deductible.
- Comprehensive claim: generally applies to theft, weather, vandalism, animal strikes, and other non-collision losses.
- Medical payments or PIP claim: may pay qualifying medical expenses and, depending on the coverage, other losses.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist claim: may apply when the responsible driver has no insurance or insufficient limits.
- Property-damage claim: may include repair, total-loss valuation, towing, storage, and sometimes loss-of-use issues.
- Commercial, rideshare, premises, or workers’ compensation claim: may involve businesses, platforms, property insurers, or employers in addition to an individual.
What an adjuster usually investigates
Expect questions about how the accident happened, who was involved, what was damaged, when symptoms began, what treatment occurred, and which policies may apply. Provide accurate information and keep copies of what you submit.
When a claim is delayed, disputed, or denied
- Ask for the reason and any missing information in writing.
- Compare the decision with the policy language and evidence.
- Do not assume a first denial is the final word.
- Track response dates and any appeal or complaint instructions.
Before accepting a settlement
Understand which claims and parties the release covers, whether future treatment remains possible, and whether bills, liens, deductibles, or other reimbursement issues remain unresolved.
Request a human case evaluation if the injuries are substantial, fault or coverage is contested, or the proposed resolution seems unclear.
General educational information only; policy language and state law control.