Making sure you have adequate insurance coverage in the event something goes wrong with your car or home, for many of us, is just another annoying to-do as adults. But when disaster strikes and you need to file a claim just moments after a traumatic car accident or a horrific house fire, it can be one of the most stressful and scary moments of your life—one where adequate support and experienced guidance through next steps with the insurance company is critical.

So when you shop for the most competitive rates on your home and auto insurance, you may want to consider more than just which policy will save you the most money, so you are not chasing your tail navigating the insurance claims process on your own, which can be as disastrous as the event you’re initiating a claim for in the first place.

It’s never a bad idea to be prepared for the worst even if it is unlikely to happen. Here is what to expect when you file an insurance claim and some tips to help you coast through this otherwise stressful process like a pro.