For many Canadians, snowmobiling is an opportunity to have fun and explore parts of the country that few people get to see. However, like any adventure sport, it does have risks involved such as injury, theft and damage to property. This is why having the right insurance is important, so that you can focus on the ride instead of the risks.
If you are involved in an accident while riding your snowmobile, our Acera Insurance advisors have shared some insights on what you should do when filing an insurance claim.
Make Sure Everyone is Safe and Document the Scene
Snowmobiling often means that you are in cold weather in a remote area, which can be dangerous. Ensuring that everyone on the scene is okay and safe should be your number one priority. Remember to pack a GPS and satellite messenger such as inReach. Don’t forget to tell people where you will be going.
If the accident isn’t life-threatening, document the scene. This includes photographing the damages to your snowmobile and anyone else’s property that is involved. If there are obstructions to the trails or your gear malfunctioned, make sure to record that as well. If you’re in a collision with another driver, make sure to get their contact and insurance information.
Notify Your Broker
Contact your Acera Insurance advisor as soon as safely possible to provide them with details about the accident and to file an insurance claim. As your primary contact with your insurance policy, they can provide you with information about how to proceed. You will also need to provide them with photos and videos about the incident and the contact details and insurance policy information for anyone else that may have been involved.
Depending on the claim, you may also need to report the incident to the local authorities and provide any corresponding information so that there is an official record.
Work with the Adjuster
Once you have filed a claim, you will be assigned an adjuster who will be your contact person throughout the claims process. They will determine the number of damages or loss that will be covered by your insurance policy minus any deductibles.
You can find out more information about the snowmobile insurance coverage options Acera Insurance provides by clicking here.
Estimating and Completing Your Repairs
Once the damage evaluation is complete, your insurance adjuster will likely provide you with a list of preferred vendors to help with the repairs to your snowmobile. If you have your own vendors that you would prefer to work with, you can also use them.
Payment is Arranged and the Claim is Closed
Once your snowmobile is repaired and returned to you, your insurer will close the claim, and the incident will be recorded.
Conclusion
Before you hit the trails, make sure to review your insurance documentation to ensure that you are properly covered in the event of an accident. If you have any questions about your snowmobile policy or the claims process, contact an Acera Insurance advisor.