If you’ve never been in a car accident, it can be confusing to know what to do afterward. Even when you’re not at fault, there are often financial consequences. Reporting the incident to your insurance company is usually the best option — but there are exceptions.
When Reporting the Accident Is a Good Idea
If the other driver is at fault and the crash was a slow-speed, minor collision with little or no damage, you may not need to report it to your insurer. Insurance companies determine your rates based on perceived risk, and even a small claim could affect your premiums. If you frequently drive in higher-risk areas or during peak accident times, your insurer may increase your rate even without major damage.
If you’re at fault but the damage is minor, it may make sense to pay out of pocket. In Minnesota, you are not legally required to report every accident to your insurance company. If repairs cost less than your deductible, you’d pay that amount anyway — so skipping a claim could help keep your rates steady. And if the final bill turns out to be higher than expected, you can still report it later.
How Your Insurance Can Help
For more serious accidents, failing to report can make things worse. If you are at fault, the other driver’s insurance company will contact you — and then your insurer. Avoiding those calls won’t help; insurance companies have resources to identify and pursue responsible drivers. Your insurance provider also has a duty to defend you, including hiring an attorney if you are sued. Reporting the claim promptly ensures you are legally protected and your defense is covered.
Reporting Correctly: The 4 Steps
If you’re not at fault for the accident, follow these four steps:
- Gather information. Collect as much as you can from the other driver — even partial details help. Your insurer can often identify the other party using a license plate number alone.
- License plate number
- Insurance information
- Contact details
- Photos of vehicle damage and the surrounding area
- Vehicle make and model
- Call the police. An officer can document the incident and gather additional details for your report.
- Contact your insurance company. Use the claims number on your insurance card. The representative you speak with will collect basic information to start the claim and connect you with the right department later.
- Cooperate with your claims adjuster. They’ll guide you through the next steps. In the meantime, consider learning more about road safety and ways to reduce risky driving.
Remember to Stay Calm
The first call to your insurance company won’t determine the final outcome of your claim. The initial representative’s job is to collect information, not make decisions. Focus on getting your claim number and providing accurate details. If you feel uncomfortable, a family member or your attorney can report the claim on your behalf. Take a deep breath, assess your options, and make the call.
Contact Us
If you’ve been in an accident that wasn’t your fault, call or text the car accident lawyers at 612-INJURED at (612) 465-8733. We’ll review your case and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.