Claims 101: What to Do After an Accident or Loss

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No one wants to think about having a car accident, discovering storm damage to their home, or experiencing a loss at their business. But when something unexpected does happen, knowing what to do next can make an already stressful situation much easier to navigate.

Insurance is there to help you recover from covered losses, but the claims process can feel overwhelming if you’ve never been through it before.

Whether you’re dealing with an auto accident, property damage, or another insured loss, here are a few important steps to keep in mind.

First, Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

Before worrying about insurance, prioritize safety.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 when necessary. If your home or business has been damaged by a fire, severe storm, fallen tree, or another event, don’t enter an area that could be unsafe.

Once any immediate danger has passed, you can begin documenting what happened and determining your next steps.

Document the Damage

Photos and videos can be extremely helpful during the claims process.

For an auto accident, consider documenting:

  • Damage to all vehicles involved
  • The accident scene
  • License plates
  • Road or weather conditions
  • Any other relevant details

For damage to your home or business, take photos or videos of the affected areas and damaged belongings before beginning cleanup when it is safe to do so.

If you need to make temporary repairs to prevent additional damage, such as covering a broken window or placing a tarp over a damaged area, keep receipts for materials or services and document the damage beforehand when possible.

Gather Important Information

Having the right information readily available can help make the claims process smoother.

Depending on the type of claim, this might include:

  • Your insurance policy information
  • The date and approximate time of the incident
  • Photos and videos
  • Contact information for others involved
  • Police or incident reports
  • Receipts or records for damaged property

For auto accidents, exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, but avoid making statements about fault at the scene. Stick to the facts when speaking with law enforcement and your insurance company.

Report the Claim Promptly

Once you’re safe and have gathered the necessary information, contact your insurance company or agent to report the loss.

You’ll typically be asked to provide details about what happened and the damage you’ve experienced. Depending on the situation, an insurance adjuster may then inspect the damage, request additional documentation, and explain the next steps.

Keep in mind that every claim is different. Your coverage, deductible, policy limits, and the circumstances surrounding the loss will all affect how your claim is handled.

Understand Your Deductible

Your deductible is the amount you’re responsible for paying toward a covered loss before insurance pays according to the terms of your policy.

Ideally, you should know your deductibles before you ever need to file a claim.

Take a few minutes to review your auto, homeowners, and other policies so you know what you would be responsible for if something happened tomorrow.

Keep Records Throughout the Process

Claims can involve multiple conversations, documents, estimates, and receipts. Keeping everything organized can save you time and frustration.

Consider keeping a folder—digital or physical—with:

  • Your claim number
  • Adjuster contact information
  • Photos and videos
  • Repair estimates
  • Receipts
  • Copies of emails or other correspondence

If you have questions along the way, don’t hesitate to ask. Insurance can be complicated, and you shouldn’t feel like you have to navigate the process alone.

Be Prepared for Severe Weather in the Upstate

October may bring cooler temperatures to Greenville and the surrounding Upstate, but severe weather can happen throughout the year.

Storms, high winds, heavy rain, hail, and fallen trees can all result in unexpected property damage. Having an up-to-date home inventory and knowing where to find your insurance information can make a big difference if you need to file a claim.

It’s also important to understand what your policy doesn’t cover. For example, standard homeowners insurance generally doesn’t cover damage caused by flooding from rising water, which typically requires separate flood insurance.

Don’t Wait Until a Claim to Understand Your Coverage

One of the best times to learn about your insurance is before you need to use it.

Understanding your deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions ahead of time can help eliminate surprises when something goes wrong.

If it’s been a while since you reviewed your policies, Edwards Insurance can help.

Contact Edwards Insurance today to schedule a complimentary insurance review. Our team can walk you through your current coverage, answer your questions, and help make sure you’re prepared if you ever need to file a claim.

When the unexpected happens, knowing you’re properly protected can make the road forward a little easier.

How to Winterize Your Home & Car in the Upstate: A Simple Guide to Protect What Matters

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Even though winters in South Carolina are typically mild, surprise freezes and sudden temperature drops can still do serious damage. Icy roads, burst pipes, dead car batteries, and unexpected insurance claims are more common than most people realize.

The good news? A few easy winterizing steps can help protect your home and car, prevent unnecessary expenses, and keep your family safe. Here’s a quick guide!

Winterizing Your Home

Cold weather can affect your home’s plumbing, heating, and even the exterior. Here’s how to prepare:

1. Protect Your Pipes

Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst—which often leads to water damage.

  • Cover outdoor faucets
  • Let indoor faucets drip overnight during freezes
  • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate
  • Consider insulating exposed pipes if they’re in garages, attics, or crawl spaces

Tip: Know where your main water shut-off valve is in case a pipe bursts.

2. Inspect Your Heating System

Have your HVAC or furnace serviced to ensure it’s working efficiently.

  • Change air filters
  • Test carbon monoxide detectors
  • Clean vents and remove dust buildup
  • Have fireplaces and chimneys professionally inspected

3. Seal Doors and Windows

Drafts can cause higher heating bills and strain your HVAC system.

  • User weather stripping or caulk
  • Cover older windows with plastic insulation kits
  • Check for cracks around doors

4. Prevent Roof & Gutter Problems

Debris buildup can cause water leaks and ice dams (yes, even in SC during sudden freezes!).

  • Clean gutters
  • Trim branches hanging over your roof
  • Check shingles for loose or missing pieces

5. Check Your Smoke Alarms

House fires increase in the winter due to heaters, candles, and holiday cooking.

  • Replace batteries
  • Test alarms monthly
  • Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen

Winterizing Your Car

Cold weather can impact your tires, battery, and engine performance. Before temperatures drop, check these:

1. Inspect Tire Pressure & Tread

Tire pressure drops in cold weather, affecting braking and traction.

  • Check pressure weekly
  • Consider winter or all-season tires if you travel to colder states
  • Make sure your tread depth is safe (use the penny test)

2. Test Your Car Battery

Batteries work harder in winter and can fail without warning.

  • Have it inspected at a local auto shop
  • Look for corrosion around terminals
  • Replace if older than 3-5 years

3. Replace Wiper Blades & Refill Fluid

Visibility becomes crucial during winter rain and frost.

  • Switch out old wipers
  • User washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures
  • Keep an ice scraper in your car

4. Check Antifreeze Levels

Antifreeze protects your engine from freezing and overheating.

  • Check coolant levels
  • Make sure you have the correct mixture (typically 50/50 antifreeze + water)

5. Keep a Winter Emergency Kit

Even a short drive can turn risky if roads freeze. Pack:

  • Blanket
  • Flashlight
  • Gloves
  • Water + snacks
  • Jumper cables
  • Phone charger
  • First aid kit

We’re Here to Help Protect Your Home & Car

At Edwards Insurance, we believe protection starts long before a claim. A little preparation, the right coverage, and a team you can trust makes all the difference.

Want help reviewing your home or auto policy?
Our local team is happy to take a look and make sure you’re prepared for winter and beyond.

Call us or send a message anytime — we’re here for you!

5 Common Auto Insurance Mistakes South Carolina Drivers Make

When it comes to car insurance, it’s easy to assume you’re covered — until you’re in a situation where you realize you’re not. As an independent agency serving drivers across Upstate South Carolina, we see common mistakes that can cost people thousands in repairs, medical bills, and lost time.
Here are five of the biggest auto insurance mistakes we see (and how to avoid them).

1. Choosing Only the State Minimum Coverage

South Carolina requires drivers to carry minimum liability limits of 25/50/25, but that’s rarely enough to fully protect you.
If you cause an accident that results in major injuries or property damage, those limits can be used up quickly — leaving you personally responsible for the rest.
Our tip: Consider higher limits and add Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to protect yourself against drivers who aren’t adequately insured.

2. Forgetting to Review Your Policy Annually

Life changes — maybe you bought a new car, added a teen driver, or started commuting farther for work. If you haven’t reviewed your policy in a year or more, your coverage may not reflect your current situation.
Our tip: Schedule a quick annual policy review with your agent. It’s free, easy, and ensures your coverage still fits your lifestyle and budget.

3. Not Understanding Comprehensive and Collision Coverage

Comprehensive covers things like theft, hail, or hitting a deer — while collision covers damage from an accident with another car or object.
We often meet drivers who think they’re covered for these events when they’ve only chosen liability coverage.
Our tip: If your car is newer or still being financed, make sure you have both comprehensive and collision coverage. It’s usually worth it for peace of mind.

4. Ignoring Discounts and Bundling Opportunities

Many South Carolina drivers are paying more than they need to simply because they haven’t asked about discounts.
From safe-driver programs to bundling your home and auto policies, there are often ways to save without sacrificing protection.
Our tip: Ask your agent to review all available discounts — especially if you also insure your home or business with us.

5. Focusing Only on Price

We all want to save money, but the cheapest policy isn’t always the best value. Low-cost plans often come with low coverage limits, high deductibles, or poor claims service when you need it most.
Our tip: Balance affordability with coverage quality. An independent agency like us can shop multiple carriers to find the best protection for your budget.

Final Thoughts

Auto insurance isn’t just about meeting state requirements — it’s about protecting yourself, your family, and your financial future.
Avoiding these common mistakes can help you drive with confidence, knowing you’re covered for whatever comes your way.

Ready to Review Your Coverage?

Our team at Edwards Insurance Agency is here to help you find the right protection at the right price.
👉 Contact us today or call (864) 292-5502 for a free, no-obligation policy review.

The Annual Insurance Checkup: Why Reviewing Your Policies Each Year Matters

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Life changes quickly—your insurance should keep up.

Just like a yearly physical helps catch health issues before they become problems, an annual insurance checkup helps ensure you’re properly protected as your needs evolve. Unfortunately, many people “set and forget” their insurance policies, only to find themselves underinsured (or overpaying) when it matters most.

Here’s why reviewing your home, auto, and business insurance once a year is one of the smartest financial moves you can make—and what to look for during your checkup.

Why an Annual Insurance Review Is Important

Your insurance coverage should reflect your current life circumstances. A lot can change in a year—new vehicles, a growing family, home renovations, starting a business, or even improved credit. Each of these can impact your coverage needs and premiums.

Failing to update your policies may lead to:

  • Gaps in coverage that leave you exposed
  • Overpaying for outdated or unnecessary policies
  • Missed opportunities for discounts and savings

What to Review During Your Insurance Checkup

Here’s a checklist to guide your annual review:

Home Insurance

  • Have you renovated or added value to your home?
  • Have you purchased expensive electronics, furniture, or appliances?
  • Have local building costs changed, affecting replacement value?

Tip: Make sure your policy covers the current cost to rebuild your home—not just its market value.

Auto Insurance

  • Have you bought, sold, or paid off a vehicle?
  • Are your driving habits different from last year (working from home, for example)?
  • Have your driving records or credit scores improved?

Tip: Ask about safe driver discounts, bundling options, or usage-based programs.

Business Insurance

  • Has your business grown, expanded services, or hired employees?
  • Are you using new equipment or storing more inventory?
  • Have you started operating from a different location, including your home?

Tip: Your business evolves—your coverage should evolve with it. A simple home endorsement might no longer be enough.

When Else Should You Review Your Coverage?

Besides your annual checkup, make it a habit to review your policies anytime you:

  • Move to a new home or office
  • Buy or lease a car
  • Experience a major life event (marriage, divorce, retirement)
  • Welcome a new child or dependent
  • Take on new business risks or services

Let Us Help You Stay Covered

An annual insurance checkup doesn’t have to be a hassle. Our team is here to walk you through your policies, answer your questions, and proactively identify ways to improve your protection and possibly lower your premiums. Contact us today to schedule your annual policy checkup—it’s free, simple, and one of the best ways to protect what matters most!