You should inform your insurance company of any damage to your vehicle immediately. Bumper damage due to hitting a curb is the type of damage would go under your physical damage coverage (collision and comprehensive).

The TX Department of Insurance (DOI) does not list a definite time period in which you should make your claim, just as soon as possible after the accident or damage is done so that the insurance carrier is informed within a reasonable amount of time. Your insurance company may have their own guidelines for how long you have to make the claim so read the terms of your policy as well as speak to your insurance agent.

Once you have placed your claim, Texas has a number of regulations listed in the TX Insurance Bill of Rights in place to aid you as an insurance consumer. One such regulation is that you be treated fairly when making a claim and have the right to have prompt payment of claims once they have been reported.

The Texas DOI also suggests that if you report a claim by phone to follow up in writing so that you protect your rights under the TX prompt payment of claims law. This law sets guidelines such as:

• The company must respond within 15 days after receiving your claim in writing.

• After you submit any requested documentation, the company has 15 days to accept or reject your claim.

• Once the company agrees to pay your claim, it must send a draft or check within 5 business days. A company that cannot meet the above deadline must send you a written notice explaining why.

• However, the Texas’ prompt payment of claims law does not apply if another driver’s insurance company is paying for your accident. The company is required to act in utmost good faith and make a prompt and fair settlement.

 For more information on making a claim read our article Seven Steps to Filing Your Car Insurance Claim.