Do I need to report a minor accident to my auto insurance?
I was involved in a minor accident where the other driver was at fault. They’ve reported it to their insurance but aren’t filing a claim. If I’m not submitting a claim myself, do I still have to report the incident?
Initially, I thought it wasn’t necessary, and since it happened a few weeks ago, I’ve been reconsidering that choice. Are there any potential repercussions for not reporting it? I’ve received a call from the other driver’s insurance, which I didn’t answer, but my own insurance hasn’t reached out at all.
It’s generally a good idea to report any auto accident to your insurance company, even if you’re not planning to make a claim. Here are a few reasons why:
Coverage Documentation: Reporting the incident creates a record with your insurance, which can be helpful if any complications arise later or if the other driver decides to pursue a claim against you.
Legal Obligations: Depending on your state, you may be legally required to report accidents to the authorities and your insurance company, especially if there are damages above a certain amount or if injuries occurred.
Potential Claims: Even if the other driver is not making a claim now, they could decide to do so later. If you’ve reported the accident, your insurance will be prepared to assist you if that happens.
Premium Implications: If your insurance company is unaware of the accident and you later submit a claim for damage or medical expenses related to it, you might face complications or denials based on failure to report.
In conclusion, while you might not be obligated to file a claim, it’s generally in your best interest to inform your insurance company about the crash. You should consider reaching out to them to report the incident, even if it was minor and you’re not planning on pursuing any claim. This way, you can avoid potential issues down the road.