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If you're involved in a car accident, or something else happens that damages your car, one of the first things you'll do is report it to your insurance company — that's filing a claim. This begins the process so you can get reimbursed for your loss.

Once you file a claim, the insurance company representative you’ll be working with is the claims adjuster. You can expect the claims adjuster to contact you, explain the process and then begin his or her investigation of the claim. It’s helpful to keep your information about your policy and claim in one place and within reach throughout the claims process.

When the investigation is completed, the claims adjuster will make a settlement, which is the amount the insurance company will pay for the loss. Their goal is to help you understand the process, and make sure you and any other individuals involved are fairly compensated.

A personal umbrella policy provides an extra layer of liability protection. It provides an additional $1 million coverage (up to $5 million available) for you and your eligible family members against lawsuits arising from personal injury or property damage claims.