Insurance Claims Guide

Understanding Insurance Claims

We have designed this to make understanding insurance claims simple and stress-free. Whether you’re handling a minor scrape or a major collision, Basco Collision Centre in Sudbury can walk you through How to file an insurance claim and the full Step by step insurance claim process.

  • Coverage basics: Collision handles crash damage; Comprehensive covers theft, weather, vandalism; Liability covers damage to others. Deductibles often apply.

  • Fault & premiums: Insurers decide fault using provincial rules; not every claim affects rates—ask your provider.

  • Your right to choose: You choose the repair shop. We work with all major insurers.

  • Rental & loss‑of‑use: Confirm if you have rental coverage and daily/total limits.


How to file an insurance claim (5 quick steps)


  1. Ensure safety and call 911 if needed; move to a safe area.

  2. Document the scene: photos, plates, road conditions, witness details.

  3. Report to your insurer promptly; complete any required police/Centre report.

  4. Contact Basco Collision Centre for towing or to book an estimate.

  5. Obtain your claim number and share our shop info so we can coordinate.


Insurance claim documentation guide


  • License, vehicle registration, and insurance card

  • Policy and claim numbers

  • Accident/damage photos and the other driver’s details

  • Police or Collision Reporting Centre number (if applicable)

  • Towing, storage, and rental receipts; any injury notes


Step by step insurance claim process (at Basco)


  1. Assess & estimate: Inspection, photos, and detailed estimate.

  2. Adjuster approval: We submit documentation for authorization.

  3. Parts & schedule: OEM/aftermarket/recycled per policy and preference.

  4. Repairs & refinishing: Structural, mechanical, cosmetic—eco‑friendly methods.

  5. Calibrations & QC: System scans, ADAS calibrations, final quality checks.

  6. Pickup: Review work, paperwork, and deductible if applicable.

Timelines, Settlement, Tips & Support

How long do insurance claims take?


  • Setup and initial appraisal: about 1–3 business days

  • Light, drivable repairs: roughly 2–5 business days after parts arrive

  • Moderate collision repairs: about 5–10 business days

  • Heavy/structural repairs: 2–6+ weeks (parts and calibrations can extend)

  • Total loss evaluation: often 1–3 weeks


Insurance claim settlement process


  • Estimate & approval: We submit; adjuster reviews; supplements if hidden damage appears.

  • Payment flow: Insurer typically pays the shop; you pay the deductible to us.

  • Total loss: If uneconomical to repair, settlement is the vehicle’s actual cash value (minus deductible/fees).

  • Post‑repair: Final invoice, repair documentation, and warranty details.


Insurance claim tips


  • Report promptly and schedule your estimate early.

  • Share facts only—don’t admit fault at the scene.

  • Confirm deductible, rental limits, and parts preferences (OEM vs. aftermarket).

  • Keep photos, receipts, and adjuster communications organized.

  • Protect the vehicle from further damage; avoid driving if unsafe.


Common insurance claim mistakes


  • Delaying notice to your insurer or skipping a required report

  • Leaving without exchanging info or taking scene photos

  • Private payoffs without notifying your insurer

  • Discarding damaged parts before adjuster review

  • Signing a release or settlement before repairs and supplements are complete


Insurance claim help and support


Since 2012, Basco Collision Centre has helped Sudbury drivers navigate claims with clarity and precision repairs that meet strict industry standards. We can coordinate with your adjuster, arrange towing, assist with rentals, and keep you updated from drop‑off to delivery. Contact our Sudbury team for friendly, step‑by‑step support.


This guide is general information, not legal advice. Policies and regulations vary. Always follow your insurance policy and directions from your insurer and local authorities.

Person writing on a clipboard in a car, likely assessing a driver during a driving test.

Start Your Claim Today

Use your insurance to restore your vehicle with confidence. Basco Collision Centre handles approvals and completes Automotive Dents & Scuffs Repairs , Automotive Minor Paint Touch Ups , Automotive Detailing , Automotive Frame Repairs , and Automotive Aluminium Repairs under an approved claim, while our Insurance claim help and support guides you with a clear Insurance claim guide—How to file an insurance claim, the Step by step insurance claim process, the right documentation, and what to expect in the Insurance claim settlement process. Start your claim today and avoid Common insurance claim mistakes with our practical Insurance claim tips and timely updates on How long do insurance claims take.