Claims Knowledge Center
DTRIC Car Insurance Claims Process
Accidents sometimes happen. That’s why DTRIC’s experienced auto insurance claims representatives will work with you to process your claim in a timely and courteous manner. We understand that each claim is different and we will provide personalized service to ensure your claim is properly settled.
DTRIC generally handles claims in the following steps:
- Report your claim to DTRIC
Simply call 1-888-HI-DTRIC (1-888-443-8742) to report your claim anytime, day or night, 365 days a year. Or, you can report your claim by filling out our Online Claim Form. A DTRIC claims representative will then speak to you about your claim and provide you with a claim number. It’s a good idea to have accident information on hand when speaking to your claims representative, such as:- Date and time of accident
- Location of accident
- Description of damage
- Information about other driver(s) or individuals involved
- Take your vehicle to a repair shop
DTRIC has trusted partnerships with a number of Preferred Auto Repair Shops across the state to provide repair services for our customers. The repair shop will generate a repair estimate and work with a DTRIC claims representative to authorize repair work on your vehicle. If your car is not drivable, we will arrange for towing if needed (the repair shop may arrange for towing if needed). You also have the option of selecting your own repair facility. Your repairs are guaranteed for as long as you own the vehicle, provided the work was completed by one of DTRIC’s Preferred Auto Repair Shops. Keep in mind that you need to pay your deductible and any other costs not covered by your auto insurance policy. - Obtain a rental car
If you have rental reimbursement coverage, you can request a rental car if you need one. Our claims representatives can assist you in reserving a rental car. If the service is offered, the rental car company will arrange to pick you up at an auto repair shop after you drop off your car for repair and then shuttle you to the rental car lot to pick up your rental car. Please note that your rental reimbursement coverage may be subject to a daily and per accident limit. For example, if you have $30 per day/$900 per accident rental reimbursement limits, you are covered up to $30 per day but no more than $900 per accident for your rental car. - Pick up your repaired vehicle once it’s ready
If you requested a rental car, the rental car company can arrange to have you picked up from the rental car lot after you return your rental car and shuttle you to the auto repair shop to pick up your repaired car. NOTE: The services described above are only available to customers who purchased coverages such as comprehensive, collision and rental reimbursement before their loss. Coverage is subject to the terms of your policy. This article is for information purposes only and does not change coverages and/or limits in your policy contract. Please refer to your policy contract for information about your coverages.
Auto accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of your level of driving experience or how careful you may be. If you are involved in one, it may be difficult to think clearly so it is important to know what to do and what information needs to be gathered. We have compiled a list of auto accident tips to follow after an accident. It is a good idea to review them so that you can be prepared in case the unexpected occurs.
Drivers involved in minor accidents with no serious injuries should move cars to the side of the road and out of the way of oncoming traffic. Leaving cars parked in the middle of the road or busy intersection can result in additional accidents and injuries.
If a car is not drivable, do not attempt to move it because it could cause further damage. Turn on hazard lights and set out cones, flares or warning triangles if possible.
After the accident, exchange the following information with any other drivers involved:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Insurance company information
- Insurance policy number
- Drivers’ license number
- Vehicle identification number
- License plate number for the driver and owner of each vehicle
- Passenger information
If the driver’s name is different from the name of the insured vehicle, establish what the relationship is and take down the name and address of each individual.
Describe each car involved, including year, make, model and color—and the exact location of the collision and how it happened. It is important to limit your discussion to just the facts of the accident and not admit fault to anyone.
If you have a smartphone with a camera, we recommend taking photos and/or video to document the damage to all involved vehicles. Keep in mind that you want your photos to show the overall context of the accident so that you can make your case to a claims adjuster. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information; they may be able to help you if the other driver(s) dispute your version of what happened.
Regardless of how minor an accident may seem, it’s a good idea to request an accident report by calling the police.
It’s a good idea to take this important step as soon as possible while the accident is still fresh in your mind so you don’t forget important details. Our Report a Claim section details how you can get the process started.
You should keep the following items:
- Pen and paper for taking notes
- If your cell phone is equipped with a camera, take photos and/or videos of the involved vehicles at the scene.
- Information about medical allergies or conditions that may require special attention if there are serious injuries.
Auto accidents can take a tremendous financial and emotional toll on everyone involved. If you are involved in an accident, remember to remain calm and prioritize your safety. Don’t forget that DTRIC will assist you in settling your claim in a timely and courteous manner so you can get back on the road.
Repairing vs. Replacing a Damaged Windshield
Car windshields, windows and other glass panels can sometimes be repaired instead of replaced if the damage meets repair criteria. If a windshield or window can be repaired by a glass shop in DTRIC Insurance’s Preferred Repair Network, you will not have to pay your deductible, provided you have comprehensive coverage and your glass claim is covered. A DTRIC Preferred Glass Repair Shop will determine whether your windshield or window can be repaired instead of replaced.
Please note that you are still responsible for your deductible if you have filed a claim for other non-glass damage to your vehicle.
NOTE: The services described above are only available to customers who purchased coverages such as comprehensive, collision, and rental reimbursement before their loss. Coverage is subject to the terms of your policy. This article is for information purposes only and does not change coverages and/or limits in your policy contract. Please refer to your policy contract for information about your coverages.
Selecting a DTRIC Preferred Auto Repair Partner eliminates the need to obtain more than one repair estimate. Just choose a location most convenient for you! Participating shops are subject to change without notice.