Common Auto Insurance Claim Scenarios
By Tanu Menon
An overview of frequent auto claim situations — collisions, hit-and-run, weather, theft, and glass — and what to do after a loss.
Not every auto claim looks the same
Auto insurance claims can involve another driver, a parked car, weather, animals, vandalism, or glass only. The type of claim affects which coverages apply — liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, or rental reimbursement.
Frequent auto claim scenarios
- At-fault and not-at-fault collisions
- Hit-and-run
- Single-vehicle accidents
- Weather, hail, flood, and falling objects
- Theft and vandalism
- Animal strikes (deer and others)
- Glass and windshield damage
- Rental car and rideshare situations (policy rules vary)
First steps after most auto losses
- Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if needed
- Document the scene with photos
- Exchange information when another party is involved
- Report the claim to your carrier (see our claims page)
- Call Tan's Agency at 469-269-6539 if you want help navigating the process
Related reading
Browse the auto claim guides below for scenario-specific tips, then request a coverage review so your limits and deductibles match how you drive.