Exchanging insurance information after a car accident with any other drivers involved is a good start. Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to touch base with your insurance to get the claims process started.

While the process differs from insurance company to insurance company, here’s the lifecycle of an auto claim with Virginia Farm Bureau Insurance.

Report your claim as soon as possible. The sooner you call, the sooner you can get back on the road. Detailed and complete information will expedite the process. You can start this process on our website on your desktop or mobile. Just sign in and go to the claims tab. 

You’ll need:

• your policy number and car information 

• your own contact info and best times to call 

• insurance information of other parties involved, plus contact 
info for witnesses 

• a full description of the accident 

• the name and badge ID of the investigating police officer 

• photos, if possible—not just close-ups of the damage, but 
perspective shots that show the accident in context 


A Farm Bureau claims representative will contact you—96% of the time it will be the same day the claim is reported; otherwise, the next business day. She’ll walk through the next steps, and set up an appraisal to assess the damage as soon as possible. If it’s a simple case, you’ll only need to hear from her once! 


If liability is in question, a field claims representative will also be in touch. He’ll handle the liability investigation and any injury claims, talk to any other insurance companies (or attorneys) involved, and handle damage payments. As the insured, you’re under no obligation to describe a collision to anyone except police and your own insurance company. 

Your car will be appraised for damage, usually within a week of ling your claim. We partner with independent body shops around the state for this initial estimate. After this appraisal, you can take your car to your preferred shop. If you’re covered for a rental car, we’ll help you get it now.

Repairs are authorized ASAP and completed. All you’ll have to pay is your deductible directly to the body shop when your car is ready and return the rental.

Drive happy! An accident is never a fun experience, but good coverage and personal attention will get you back on the road as soon as possible, with minimal worry on your part. Isn’t it time to make sure your coverage is up to snuff?