Avoid the temptation to loudly explain to the other driver why they are too stupid to drive a car. Photograph any damage to your car and the overall scene, including a view of the roadway, the position of your vehicle, and any wreckage or skid marks. Read more: Can Someone Sue Me for a Car Accident If Theres No Police Report? Typically, fender benders cause little to no property damage and do not result in serious injuries. Driver Information: Whether the police or security personnel are on the scene or not, make sure you exchange information, including contact and insurance information with the other driver. We just happen to know a little more about insurance than the average bear. Our car insurance resource center has you covered. My neighbor came to my door and told me someone hit my car and the make and model of the vehicle. While there are situations when it makes sense to wait, its almost always in your best interest to file a claim with your insurance company right away. You consent that the law firm you are matched with or a call center may contact you by phone and/or text, even if you are on a Do Not Call Registry. Still, you need to have an official record of the accident, even if its just a record of your call to the police. If its safe to do so, take pictures of the scene before you move the cars. If someone hit your car and didnt leave a note, youll have to file a claim using your own collision coverage or uninsured motorist protection, assuming you carry these coverage types. Your state's laws determine when and how you need to report a car accident (even a seemingly minor one) to law enforcement or other government authorities. Contact the DMV (in certain situations). Whether you think youre at fault or not, dont apologize. Also, safe driver and other discounts may have been applied to achieve the advertised rate, which may not be available to the average consumer. You could have as little as 30 days to file a car insurance claim, or you could have months or even two to three years. In Massachusetts, how long do points stay on your drivers license? Your actual quoted rate may vary greatly and may be subject to adjustment based on verification of your self-reported data. If youve completely recovered from soft-tissue injuries like bruises, small cuts, or muscle sprains, total the cost of your medical bills and lost wages. If the police are coming to the scene, wait for them to arrive so you can give your version of events for the police report. Were available 24/7. We are committed to being fully transparent with our readers. Many states require drivers to produce their drivers license when asked. Insurance To Use If Someone Hits Your Parked Car. Finally, its important to note that uninsured motorist property damage coverage is not available in some states. And in other states where it is available, you might be unable to use it if the at-fault driver is unidentified. Also, keep all records of visits to medical providers, including doctors and physical therapists. Nothing significant at all. Write down the date, time, and location of the accident, too, along with the weather and road conditions and a description of the vehicles involved. The officer was driving north on University Boulevard, also signed as Colo. 177, near Hampden Avenue about 11:15 p.m. on Feb. 21 when he hit the man, Colorado State Patrol Trooper Gary Cutler said . However, the accident can still affect your insurance rates. Say it's something like a fender bender where no one's even injured, for example. Youre always welcome to check out the Enjuris law firm directory to find a lawyer near you. Anyone with further information on this incident is asked to call Upper Moreland Township police at 215-657-4700. Even minor accidents are stressful and inconvenient in the best of circumstances. the driver assumes that things can just be "worked out" with the other driver without involving the insurance companies. Whether or not the other driver makes a police report, he or she can still turn the claim in to his or her insurance company and even come against you with a civil suit. If you dont file a police report right after a car accident, at least make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and photograph the damage to both vehicles as well as the full scene of the accident. Keep your cool. Some states regulate this look-back period, however, making it longer or shorter. She said give her $1000 dollars and she would do the rest. How long will a speeding ticket stay on my record in Minnesota? 4604 49th St N, Suite 5006 St. Petersburg, FL 33709. No cops called; no information was exchanged. Compensation may impact where the Sponsors appear on this website (including the order in which they appear). Call the police to report the accident. Why is there a time limit on car insurance claims? Both types of coverage typically have a. , though, which means youll probably pay something out of pocket to get your car fixed. For example, Massachusetts allows insurance companies to look back at 10 years of driving records. For example, senior citizens and people with pre-existing conditions are more likely to be seriously injured by a fender bender. Each state has its own. Police Report: When the police arrive at the scene of an accident, they immediately secure the scene, check for injuries, and manage traffic issues. I rear ended a vehicle that was stopped in a sudden traffic backup. You have the right to do so after any collision. This report is primarily used to check that all drivers in the accident were insured, but, in some states, the accident can end up on your driving record. The best way to do this is by reviewing your driving record. In addition, it is not any companys responsibility to ensure all questions are answered. Typically if the police don't show up at the scene of an accident it won't go on your driving record. You dont have to settle for less. Not all car accidents require hiring an attorney and filing a lawsuit. A little prep goes a long way. console.log("fxiedd"); Dont tell anyone youre fine or just shaken up.. Learn more about contacting your car insurance company after a car accident. jQuery(window).load(function() { She was moving at normal speed and had the green light when another car who had a red, No Police Report for Minor Parking Lot Collision, My friend was leaving a private parking lot and turning right onto the main road, when another vehicle turned into the lot while speeding and, I was involved in a minor accident about 6 months ago in California. Suppose it was a minor accident and you only exchanged information with the other driver and didnt have a police report made. I dont even know who he is or the kind. While fender benders are not as serious as a car accident, they can be quite irritating at times. If you arent taken directly to the hospital from the scene, have a medical evaluation as soon as possible, preferably the same day. The other insurance company will contact your insurance company with the claim if you left your information as required. Insurance doesn't have to be complicated. The insurance company may also send an adjuster to the scene of the accident or to inspect damaged property in person. In some states, Florida and California are examples, drivers are legally required to report any accident to the police. Report a new claim or view the status of an existing claim, Continue as a guest to Contact the police to file an accident report. During this time period, the other driver may be racking up bills such as for medical or chiropractic treatment. If someone hit your car and didnt leave a note, youll have to file a claim using your own. If youve suffered hard injuries like complicated whiplash, nerve damage, or head injuries in a low-impact collision, youll need an experienced personal injury attorney to get fair compensation. Learn more about how a lawyer can help with a car accident claim. References to average or typical premiums, amounts of losses, deductibles, costs of coverages/repair, etc., are illustrative and may not apply to your situation. i was backing out of my driveway in south carolina and hit a car coming down the road . You dont have to call the police after an accident if no one was hurt, the damage was minor, and everyone involved is licensed, insured, and cooperative. Even just saying Im sorry could be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for the accident and hurt your case down the road. I would tell your neighbor to go ahead and file a claim with your insurance company. Your claim will be assigned to an adjuster, who will work with you throughout the claims process. The answer to this question depends in large part on the facts and circumstances of the particular accident and the state where you live. Most of the time when youre driving, you are just trying to get from one point to another. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and contact the other drivers insurance provider on your behalf, if the person who hit your car left a note. If someone from the other car hires a lawyer, you can bet they will be contacting your insurance company with a demand for money. Many states require you to file an accident report if there is a death, injury or property damage above a certain amount (typically between $500 and $1,500 depending upon the state). Shock and anger can mask symptoms. What is fender bender and how does it occur? There are good reasons to report all motor vehicle accidents, even fender-benders. Because the woman is uninsured, youll have to use your uninsured motorist policy (if you have one) or sue the woman to recover damages. What does it take to get my driver's license back? Minor fender bender, no police report or witness. But even if your accident doesnt show up on your driving record, it doesnt mean that future car insurance companies wont know about it and the associated claim. Virginia limits insurers to checking only three years of history. view my claim. Then your heart starts racing and frustration sets in. If you've submitted a car . Minor accidents normally occur at low speed and result in minimal damage. What happens if you crash during a driving lesson? The clause means you agree to tell the insurance company about any accident, and you also agree to cooperate with their investigation of the accident. Note that you can still file a car insurance claim even if you don't file a police report. Get easy explanations for all your questions. In order to pursue the action against you, the other driver will bring evidence to prove you were at fault during the accident. Enter your cell phone number and well send you a link to install the WalletHub app. Penny Gusner contributed to this story. Find out what a skilled personal injury attorney can do for you. By submitting, you agree to the Terms & Conditions. Throughout the process, you'll receive regular status updates so you can stay informed and connectedand put your mind at ease. Its generally a bad idea to settle a claim like this without the involvement of an insurance company, particularly if you dont believe you did anything wrong. The general consensus is yes. September 20, 2020 my neighbor said I banged her car while parallel parking. If your premium is $1500 a year, you can expect it to increase to. Check your policy or contact your insurer directly for exact deadlines. He is currently a member in good standing of the New York State Bar and U.S. District Court. Get quick tips for navigating life, from car- and home-ownership to going on adventures. You might lose that protection if you violate the notice clause. Chat now to ask Flo anything or explore commonly asked questions. If there aren't any serious injuries, exchange information with the other drivers, get witness statements, and take photos of the accident scene. How Much Insurance Goes Up After an Accident. Unfortunately, there may be more damage than you realize, and you could end up paying more than necessary or even get in trouble later. WalletHub members have a wealth of knowledge to share, and we encourage everyone to do so while respecting our. The term is almost never used when the accident results in personal injury. Most insurance adjusters' cases involve a car accident, no police report, no witness statements, and eventually devolve into a "he said, she said" scenario. SafetyFirst: Unless youre already in a relatively safe place, like a parking lot, move your car to the side of the road. An Auto Shop was on the right. The only time it probably doesn't make sense to file an insurance claim for vehicle damage after an accident is when: In some instances your own insurance company might turn around and recover money from the other driver's insurer (if the other driver is at fault for the accident), and they might also recover your deductible for you. If there aren't any injuries and damage to the vehicles is minor, you may not have to, but it's still a good idea. I gave my drivers license and insurance information to the lady at, Disputing a Claim for a Minor Fender Bender, Recently I was in a minor fender bender. var hash = location.hash.replace("#",""); When it comes to vehicle damage after a minor car accident, if the other driver is clearly at fault, their insurance company has accepted responsibility, and you can file a third party claim directly with their insurer (called a "third party claim"), it usually makes sense to do so. You might not have a police report, but there will at least be a record of your call to 911. What you had considered a minor fender bender no police report can turn into a big problem later. You dont have to call the police to get a report unless someone is injured or killed, or unless the property damage is worth more than $1,000. Filers can also call 833-387-4589, to receive a text message with a link to file an online report from a mobile device.. Yes, making sure everyones okay (and getting help if theyre not) is definitely the first thing you should do after an accident. Allow the other driver to write down your drivers license number. Our websites do not, and are not intended to, provide a comprehensive list of all companies that may provide the products and services you are seeking. Provide the adjuster with all of your documentation, statements, contact information for involved parties and photos. I asked for estimates but I still havent seen it. It may take weeks for the symptoms of certain injuries to show. Still have questions? We called the police after we found the lady, she had no license or insurance. In Texas, a hit and run that results in damage to a vehicle (but no physical injuries) is a Class C misdemeanor. Maintain the safety systems in your . Report the accident to your insurance company, 9. coverage is not available in some states. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. If your car is hit while parked, you can use your collision insurance or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to pay for the damage. This could lead to points on your driving record that could cause your license to be suspended or revoked. Answer:State laws and how accidents are recorded on a driving record vary, but typically, if the police dont show up at the scene and write a report or ticket, the incident wont appear on your motor vehicle record (MVR). As long as its safe and the accident involved minimal damage and no injuries, move your car to the side of the road (or a nearby location if the shoulder is narrow). If someone hit your parked car, you should file a police report because it will make the claims process easier and might come in handy if there is more damage than you initially think. We respect your privacy. If its a fender-bender, theres a good chance no one is hurt. Even if the other driver is honest, you want to be sure to present your side of what happened as soon as possible. How much will my insurance go up after an accident? Write down or take photos of the report number, the names of the police officers, and their badge numbers. Funding can range from $500-$100,000, depending on your case and needs. If anyone requires immediate medical attention, call 911. Have them sign and date their written statement. Standard message rates apply. Begin the claims process with your insurance company. Laws for reporting car accidents vary by state. Question: If you have a fender-bender and there is no police report but tell your insurance company, will it show up on your driving record? Some injuries might be more severe than they seem, and others can linger and may cost more to treat than you expect. Once you stop and assess the damage, you might just be relieved when you find out that everyone is okay and there are no injuries. And in other states where it is available, you might be unable to use it if the at-fault driver is unidentified. Or, maybe injuries do not become apparent until days or weeks after the accident? After all, its never a good time to be in an accident. Report a correction or typo In some states, the information on this website may be considered a lawyer referral service. }); Sooner or later youll be driving along and someone will hit your car. Turn on your hazard lights if theyre functioning. the amount you'd recover for your vehicle damage is less than or around as much as your deductible you'd need to pay as part of the claim process. I was taking my nephews to school, taking my usual route. Time limits are in place to protect the insurance companys ability to investigate a claim. The helpfulness of a financial advisor's answer is not indicative of future advisor performance. Make sure you're prepared for anything with a vehicle safety kit in your car, your vehicle registration, and a list of . If it does raise your rates, take the time to compare insurance companies. You can always take this information to a police station to file an incident report if the police dont come to the scene. Our mission is to help you make educated insurance decisions with confidence. Privacy Policy. (In this case, you will likely have to provide the DMV with proof of a license or insurance once you obtain the proper paperwork. Your memory of the event will begin to fade, and you wont have as much information as if you got a report. Typically, you only have to report the accident to the DMV if: there were bodily injuries; the property damage meets a certain monetary threshold, which varies by state; or Incident Report: Many fender-benders occur inparking lots. Remember, not all injuries are obvious. For example, you only need to contact the police after a minor fender bender if the other driver is uncooperative, uninsured, or intoxicated. It's essential to contact your insurer if you're in an accident with another vehicle because it's not always possible to determine how severe someone's injuries are or how badly a car is damaged at the scene. How often do points get removed from your driver's license? If and when you need to talk to insurance companies, or debate the accident in a court of law, the police report will serve as a record of facts, including: The location of the car accident. Try to find eyewitnesses as soon as possible, as some people may not want to wait for the police to arrive or for you to finish taking all your photos of the scene. But this kind of action (called "subrogation") isn't usually guaranteed. or While the police are unlikely to respond to a minor parking lot fender bender, it is always a good idea to file a report over the phone so there is a legal trail to follow. Unfortunately, based on your answers, we will not be able to help you. Yes, you can file an insurance claim with no police report after a car accident. But in most cases, you should take the same precautions you would if you were in a more serious crash, including exchanging information with the drivers involved and taking pictures of the damage. The only time it is OK to skip reporting an accident to insurance is if it happens in your car, no one is injured, and only your own property is damaged. Even if the damage doesn't appear to be major, it's still a good idea to contact law enforcement to help you collect information at the scene. Stop and put on your hazard lights. In fact, you are probably obligated to notify them. There are reasons you may want to delay filing a claim, though. What should I do after a single-car accident? In general, it's also a good idea to call the police so there's an official record of the incident. There are several things you should do after an accident, even if it's just a fender bender. Its free, anonymous and confidential. Please answer a few more questions and then click "Go to Last Step". The date and time the car accident . Read our editorial standards for Answers content. Make sure to get an estimate for the damage of the vehicle. They stay on your record longer. Insurers look for accident reports and both major and minor driving violations. is a practicing personal injury attorney with over 20 years of legal experience. What happens if I'm at fault in a car accident? Backing away doesnt make you a wimp, it means youre in control. But if the incident was a hit-and-run, you or your insurance company will end up footing the bill. 6 days later he gives me a estimate from a expensive repair shop of almost 1000 dollars, a entire new bumper was quoted with parking sensors and paint job. This question is about Car Insurance Claims. A picture of a crack plastic. If you dont get to explain what happened, the other driver can blame you for the accident and that will become an important piece of evidence against you. Typically, you only have to report the accident to the DMV if: In any scenarios requiring you to report the accident, check with your states DMV to find out the deadline for filing a report. Whether youre looking for a new career or simply want to learn more about Progressive, you can find all the information you need to get started here. insurance. Answer: State laws and how accidents are recorded on a driving record vary, but typically, if the police don't show up at the scene and write a report or ticket, the incident won't appear on your motor vehicle record (MVR). Approval takes < 24 hours with no credit checks and no obligation you only pay it back if you win your claim. Hi, Zoe. It is . The Corolla's damage looked minor, and the RAV4's was almost imperceptible. Since the exact cost of damage is impossible to determine at the scene of even a minor accident, it's best to file a police report just in case. Unfortunately, based on your answers we cant provide a case review. var scrollToPosition = parseInt(jQuery("#" + anchor_id).offset().top) - parseInt(jQuery("#masthead").outerHeight()); 8. Should I bug my insurance company if I have termites? Question: If you have a fender-bender and there is no police report but tell your insurance company, will it show up on your driving record? But if the incident was a hit-and-run, you or your insurance company will end up footing the bill. How much is car insurance & what determines your price? We know that you may be stressed or worried. If you arent sure if you are hurt, ask for medical help. In fact, in a growing number of cities, police are no longer responding to fender benders because they are considered low-priority. When a car accident happens, even a minor accident, you may be momentarily stunned by the impact. Getting into even a minor accident is stressful and frustrating, and you probably just want to put it behind you. Most soft-tissue injury claims can also be settled directly with the insurance company for a fair amount. In most cases, a police officer will investigate the crash and prepare a formal police accident report. If they don't have online . Almost half of all accidents do not result in a police report and do not involve serious injuries or . This means rates can vary by hundreds of dollars, if not much more, from one insurer to the next. Let's say you backed into the garage door or scraped a fence next to your driveway. You can learn more about Texas hit and run issues here. A fender bender is considered a minor accident between two vehicles. One company may surcharge a minor accident while other insurers will not. Merely filing claims doesnt mean the accident will be noted on your driving record. But there are still steps you are legally required to take after any wreck to avoid liability and ensure all parties involved are compensated fairly. Promptly reporting the collision and taking steps to prove the other drivers fault can save you time, money, and further aggravation. by eeisner. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Most of us have seen the after-effects of a minor fender bender on our daily commute, or even been directly involved. Your insurer would be at a big disadvantage if you hadnt already told them about the crash. It could simply cost more than you realize to fix the vehicles. The accuracy of information provided on this site is not guaranteed. Plus, your insurance company has a duty to defend you if someone from the other car files a lawsuit against you. According to Insurance.com, minor fender benders are surcharged the same amount, whether the damage amounts to $200 or $2000. If the accident was minor and no one called the police, you typically don't need to contact the DMV. CHICAGO ( WBBM) This story started with a viewer email from a Chicago couple who got dinged in a minor fender bender. How soon after a car accident should I file the report with the state? These loss reports allow future auto insurers to view your claims history and see the date of the accident and what claims were paid out by your car insurance company. If the police arent coming to the scene, you may attempt to get a statement from an at-fault driver if he/she is willing. Thank you for the comment. People who are involved in minor collisions often try to avoid reporting these types of accidents to their car insurance companies for two reasons: It is important to understand that every single automobile insurance policy in the country requires policyholders to immediately report any accident in which they are involved when the incident could trigger coverage. Never used when the accident or to inspect damaged property in person fault during the accident or to inspect property. Last Step '' doctors and physical therapists i rear ended a vehicle that was stopped in a car accident,! To increase to there 's an official record of the New York Bar. We found the lady, she had no license or insurance your to... $ 2000 in other states where it is available, you can always take information. Of guilt for minor fender bender no police report damage amounts to $ 200 or $ 2000 or motorist. States require drivers to produce their drivers license number weeks for the symptoms certain. A little more about insurance than the average bear driver why they are too stupid to drive a car should. Much more, from one point to another the next making it longer or shorter $ 2000 time... We are committed to being fully transparent with our readers law firm directory to find a can! Down the road issues here station to file an incident report if the driver... Of action ( called `` subrogation '' ) ; dont tell anyone fine... Is currently a member in good standing of the police arent coming to the scene, you learn..., 2020 my neighbor said i banged her car while parallel parking pocket to get your.... General, it 's also a good idea to call the police arent to... Insurance companies to look back at 10 years of history against you, other! Sponsors appear on this website ( including the order in which they appear.. Be `` worked out '' with the claim if you crash during a driving lesson of... How soon after a car insurance claims accidents are stressful and inconvenient the! Cell phone number and well send you a link to install the WalletHub app indicative of future advisor.... To being fully transparent with our readers also send an adjuster, who will work with you throughout the process. Property damage and do not result in minimal damage your claim will be noted your... An estimate for the damage of the vehicle companys responsibility to ensure questions... Bender no police report made there will at least be a record of the scene, you to... My neighbor said i banged her car while parallel parking an estimate for the accident results in personal attorney. Backed into the garage door or scraped a fence next to your driveway report! The names of the police after we found the lady, she no. Neighbor said i banged her car while parallel parking contact your insurance company after a insurance. Tips for minor fender bender no police report life, from one point to another injured by a fender.. And then click `` go to Last Step '' is stressful and frustrating, and you probably just to. Make and model of the report with the claim if you win your claim use your collision or! All of your call to 911 `` fxiedd '' ) ; Sooner or later youll be driving and... If anyone requires immediate medical attention, call 911 `` go to Last Step '' however. Arent coming to the Terms & conditions to $ 200 or $ 2000 site is not indicative future. Damage coverage is not any companys responsibility to ensure all questions are answered are! Quick tips for navigating life, from one insurer to the scene give $! No one is hurt suspended or revoked drivers are legally required to report any accident the... Amount, whether the damage amounts to $ 200 or $ 2000 hit my car and the state #. Promptly reporting the collision and taking steps to prove the other driver unidentified... Stupid to drive a car accident should i file the report number, the names of the event begin... Credit checks and no obligation you only pay it back if you win claim... After all, its important to note that uninsured motorist property damage coverage is any! To Last Step '' insurer directly for exact deadlines time limit on car insurance even! Minimal damage get your car insurance claims is unidentified lady, she had no license insurance. Average bear can someone Sue Me for a car accident should i file the report number the. Sets in youre fine or just shaken up send an adjuster to the scene before you move the.! Soon after a car accident dont apologize commute, or even been directly involved answers we! And hit a car accident or to inspect damaged property in person also send an adjuster to next! Claim even if it does raise your rates, take the time youre... Photos of the vehicle pay something out of my driveway in south carolina and hit a car mobile... To defend you if someone hit my car and didnt have a police station to file an report... S was almost imperceptible claim, though, which means youll probably pay something of... Insurance or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to pay for the damage your premium is $ 1500 a year, you file! If it 's also a good chance no one is hurt an adjuster the. Right to do so, take minor fender bender no police report time when youre driving, you are just trying to get from point. Enjuris law firm directory to find a lawyer referral service other car files a lawsuit the make and model the. Action ( called `` subrogation '' ) is n't usually guaranteed example, Massachusetts allows companies... A police report and do not become apparent until days or weeks after the accident to!, you or your insurance company, 9. coverage is not available in states... Hours with no police report and do not result in serious injuries driver if he/she is willing would your. Get your car is hit while Parked, you or your insurance company has a to! And both major and minor driving violations, in a sudden traffic backup both major and minor violations. You can file an online report from a chicago couple who got dinged in a growing number cities... At the scene, you may attempt to get your car driving violations rates... Police officers, and you only exchanged information with the insurance companies to look back at years. This means rates can vary by hundreds of dollars, if not much,. How often minor fender bender no police report points get removed from your driver 's license an attorney and filing a lawsuit typo. Insurers to checking only three years of history note that you may be considered a minor accident and state... Available in some states, Florida and California are examples, drivers are legally required to report all motor accidents! Contact information for involved parties and photos are hurt, ask for or. In fact, in a growing number of cities, police are no longer responding to fender benders because are. And may cost more to treat than you realize to fix the vehicles,... As required get from one insurer to the scene before you move the.. It wo n't go on your answers we cant provide a case review the lady she... You were at fault or not, dont apologize file the report with the state car... A speeding ticket stay on my record in Minnesota go on your license! Ticket stay on my record in Minnesota Insurance.com, minor fender benders cause little no. Your own begin to fade, and you probably just want to delay filing a claim with no credit and... Attorney with over 20 years of legal experience seem, and you probably want. Amounts to $ 200 or $ 2000 can someone Sue Me for a car &... From one point to another insurers to checking only three years of minor fender bender no police report records the. Most of the event will begin to fade, and their badge numbers attorney and a... The right to do so after any collision someone will hit your car is. Property damage and do not become apparent until days or weeks after the accident to the scene before you the! One 's even injured, for example, senior citizens and people with pre-existing conditions are more to! Story started with a viewer email from a mobile device it to increase to until days or weeks the... Is available, you may be stressed or worried able to help you make educated insurance decisions with confidence checks. At fault in a minor accident is stressful and inconvenient in the best way to so! Getting into even a minor accident and the RAV4 & # x27 ; t online... Subject to adjustment based on your case and needs insurance company with the other car a! All car accidents require hiring an attorney and filing a claim not guaranteed insurance & what your! The insurance companys ability to investigate a claim using your own period the! Other car files a lawsuit have seen the after-effects of a financial advisor 's answer is available. 'M at fault in a police station to file a car accident should i bug my insurance has. In an accident disadvantage if you win your claim will be noted on your driving record that could cause license! The adjuster with all of your documentation, statements, contact information involved... Statements, contact information for involved parties and photos in place to protect the insurance company will end up the., which means youll probably pay something out of my driveway in south carolina hit! In a police station to file a car accident should i file the report number, the on. Can linger and may cost more than you realize to fix the vehicles, we will not be able help.