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:

Carry a disposable camera in your car to take photos of any accident scene. Record the location, time, weather, road conditions, etc. of the accident. Memory tends to fade, so notes taken on the spot are valuable for future questions.

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.

Next call your insurer immediately: If you don't, the company could void your policy. Follow up in writing as well to ensure that your rights are protected under law. Reread your policy- Know what coverage you have and don't have so you know what you can claim. Request from your agent before filing details on the claims process and what information the company may need. Make sure you check deadlines as well. Some policies have time limits for filing claims, submitting bills and even resolving disputes.

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.

Be sure and watch your claim: Obtain your claim number and call the company or claims adjuster periodically for status. With certain insurers you can track your claim's status online. Sometimes writing a letter to the adjuster or a supervisor can get things moving, if you feel they are delayed. Be persistent, but not insufferable.

And remember, to avoid walking while your claim is being processed-Check rental coverage: If the accident wasn't your fault, you can get a rental car while yours is in the shop, paid for by the other driver's company. If the mishap was your fault, you have to have rental reimbursement coverage. If your car was stolen and you have comprehensive insurance, your insurer will probably pay a capped amount each day for a rental.

In this manner when you must file a claim on your auto insurance, you know that everything will be dealt with as smoothly as possible.