Client Resources & Guides

Step-by-step guides for accidents, claims, and policy reviews — plus useful links for Michigan drivers and homeowners.

What to Do After a Car Accident

  1. 1Check for injuries — call 911 if anyone is hurt
  2. 2Move vehicles out of traffic if safe to do so
  3. 3Call the police and request an accident report, even for minor accidents
  4. 4Exchange insurance info, name, and contact details with the other driver
  5. 5Take photos of both vehicles, the scene, and any visible damage
  6. 6Note the other driver's license plate, make, model, and color
  7. 7Do not admit fault or apologize at the scene
  8. 8Call our office — we'll walk you through the claim process

💡 Pro Tip

In Michigan, you have up to 1 year to file a no-fault claim for medical benefits, but it's best to report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible.

What to Do After a Home Claim

  1. 1Ensure your family is safe — evacuate if the structure is unsafe
  2. 2Call emergency services if there's fire, gas leak, or structural risk
  3. 3Prevent further damage if safe: board windows, cover damaged areas
  4. 4Document everything with photos and video before any cleanup
  5. 5Make a list of all damaged or destroyed items with estimated values
  6. 6Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary housing
  7. 7Call our office first — we'll help you file your claim correctly
  8. 8Do not make permanent repairs until the adjuster has inspected the damage

💡 Pro Tip

Keep a home inventory (photos of your belongings stored in the cloud) so you have documentation of what you own before a loss occurs.

Annual Policy Review Checklist

  1. 1Review your coverage limits — have home values or rebuild costs changed?
  2. 2Check your deductibles — are they still comfortable for your financial situation?
  3. 3Add or remove drivers from your auto policy as your household changes
  4. 4Update your home inventory if you've made major purchases
  5. 5Verify your life insurance still matches your income and family needs
  6. 6Ask about new discounts — you may qualify for ones you don't have yet
  7. 7Review your umbrella coverage if your assets have grown
  8. 8Make sure all new vehicles, boats, or recreational items are on your policy

💡 Pro Tip

We recommend a free policy review every 12 months or after any major life event — marriage, new baby, home purchase, new vehicle, or starting a business.

How to File an Insurance Claim

  1. 1Call our office first — we'll help ensure your claim is filed correctly
  2. 2Have your policy number ready when you call
  3. 3Provide a clear description of what happened and when
  4. 4Submit all documentation: photos, police reports, receipts, estimates
  5. 5Get a claim number and the adjuster's contact information
  6. 6Keep a log of all communications related to your claim
  7. 7Request a written denial reason if your claim is denied
  8. 8Contact us if you have any issues — we advocate for you

💡 Pro Tip

For 24/7 claims: Farmers (1-800-435-7764) | Bristol West (1-800-800-9410) | Foremost (1-800-527-3905). Always notify our office as well.

Helpful Resources

Useful Links for Michigan Residents

Michigan Secretary of State — Vehicle Registration
Register vehicles, update address, renew plates
Michigan DNR — Recreational Vehicle Registration
Snowmobile, ATV, boat registration and trail permits
National Flood Insurance Program
Learn about flood insurance and check your flood zone
Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association
Michigan's unlimited PIP medical benefits fund
Farmers 24/7 Claims
1-800-435-7764 — available around the clock
Signal® Safe Driving App
Download the Farmers Signal app to earn driving discounts

Need Personalized Help?

Our team is your first call for any insurance question — claims, coverage questions, policy changes, or anything in between.

Call (616) 317-3747Browse FAQs