Nationwide Offers Policyholders Free iPhone Claims App

Nationwide Insurance (Columbus, Ohio) is offering customers a free application for the iPhone through the Apple App Store. The application enables Nationwide customers to find local resources, document an accident and submit claims information from the accident site.

The Nationwide Mobile app represents a commitment to developing innovative solutions to simplify customers' lives, according to Susan McManus, associate vice president of interactive marketing, Nationwide. "We wanted to create an app that equips Nationwide customers with tools to help them take some of the appropriate next steps after an accident, and expedite getting back to normal. We plan to add more features in the future."

Among the features the application gives users are: information about towing services and Nationwide-affiliated repair facilities; the ability to document relevant accident information for filing a claim, including drivers license and contact information, photos of the accident taken with the iPhone camera, and precise location logged through the unit's built-in GPS; and claims submission capability.

Nationwide's free iPhone app gives policyholders the ability to react to an auto accident methodically, by collecting relevant information, taking photographs of the accident contacting police, towing companies and repair facilities, and submitting a claim from the accident site.

Anthony O'Donnell has covered technology in the insurance industry since 2000, when he joined the editorial staff of Insurance & Technology. As an editor and reporter for I&T and the InformationWeek Financial Services of TechWeb he has written on all areas of information ... View Full Bio