Claims are where the rubber meets the road. In Episode 2 of The Accelerator podcast, leaders from the Hagerty claims team share how a fast, compassionate, and expert claims experience isn’t just about customer satisfaction – it’s one of the most powerful tools to drive referrals and earn long-term loyalty.
Can't get enough claims? Check out the Extra Gear: Wildfires, Floods, Hurricanes: When Disaster Strikes Classic Cars to learn about Hagerty's approach to CAT claims.
For agents and brokers in the collector car market, a claim isn’t just a policy test – it’s a defining moment. It’s when the insurance promise is put to the test and how it’s handled can either build trust or damage the relationship.
With collector vehicles, the stakes are higher:
Hagerty’s claims philosophy is built to meet these moments with speed, expertise, and empathy.
More Than a Transaction – Claims are the Brand
Collector car owners aren’t just insuring vehicles, they’re protecting legacies. Whether it's a family heirloom, an investment, or a labor of love, a thoughtful claims experience drives both client satisfaction and future referrals. Hagerty's white-glove, expert claims service ensures that clients are supported when it matters most.
Expertise Built for Enthusiasts
Standard adjusters aren’t equipped to handle collector vehicle claims. Hagerty’s dedicated Material Damage Unit (MDU) is staffed by specialists with real-world experience in paint, repair, restoration, and high-end materials. These are professionals who understand everything from hand-applied lacquer to carbon fiber.
This internal knowledge ensures that claims are resolved not just with accuracy, but with authenticity – restoring a vehicle as close as possible to its original state.
When "Total Loss" isn’t the End
In the collector market, total loss doesn’t always mean the end of the road. Hagerty evaluates each case holistically – considering state regulations, hidden repair potential, and salvage value. If there’s a way to save a meaningful vehicle, the team helps make it happen.
This mindset aligns with Hagerty’s broader purpose to save driving and preserve car culture for future generations – restoring rather than replacing whenever possible.
Guaranteed Value®: A Smarter Way to Protect
Collector vehicle insurance isn’t the same as standard auto – and neither is the policy language. Many general carriers use Stated Value, which may leave clients underinsured at the time of loss. Hint: Stated Value is NOT the same as Agreed Value.
Hagerty offers Guaranteed Value®, our version of agreed value, which ensures that your client receives the full agreed payout with no depreciation or guesswork*. It’s based on current collector market values, not the general used car market. This clarity gives agents a major advantage during the sales and claims process.
Optional Coverages That Go a Long Way
Two optional endorsements stand out:
These endorsements help agents stand out while offering tailored, proactive protection.
What Agents Can Do Today
Use these actionable insights to better serve your collector clients:
Bottom Line for Agents
The collector vehicle claim isn’t just a transaction – it’s a test of trust. Hagerty’s team understands what these cars mean and delivers a claims experience that reflects that.
For agents, that’s not just good service, it’s a powerful differentiator that drives retention and referrals.
*Less any deductible and/or salvage value, if retained by you. Guaranteed Value includes all taxes and fees unless prohibited by state law.
**Cost of 15% of the vehicle’s comprehensive and collision premiums (if applicable) and is subject to change. Title branding is subject to state laws and regulations. Cherished Salvage is not available in NY. ***Coverage up to $250 per vehicle per occurrence applies, with an annual cap of $1000 per vehicle. Cherished Salvage, Guaranteed Value & Hagerty are registered trademarks of The Hagerty Group LLC, ©2025 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Hagerty Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Hagerty, Inc.
Some coverage not available in all states. This is a general description of coverage. All coverage subject to policy provisions, exclusions, and endorsements.