In addition to notifying police (usually by calling 911 at the scene), did you know you’re also required to report a car accident involving injuries or property damage to your auto insurer? That’s the case even if you weren’t at fault and are planning on filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Most auto insurers also have time limits for reporting crashes—and some of them are very short. Because the aftermath of a crash is hectic, painful, and confusing, it’s easy for crash victims to fail to meet this requirement, which can result in potential lost compensation.
Follow These 7 Steps When Reporting a Crash
Some auto insurers make it easy to report crashes through their apps, websites, or toll-free numbers. Others require more time-intensive processes.
No matter how your auto insurer handles its crash reporting process, it’s important to keep these tips in mind—especially if or when you speak with a representative or claims adjuster.
1. Report the Crash as Soon as Possible.
Most auto insurers require you to report an accident immediately, with some requiring notification as little as 24 hours after an accident occurs. Failing to report the crash within this timeframe could result in a denied claim or delays in processing.
2. Stick to the Facts of What Happened and Don’t Admit Fault.
When speaking with your insurance company, you should:
- Provide only the basic details of the crash, such as the time, location, and parties involved.
- Don’t speculate about fault, as Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means any admission of fault could reduce your compensation.
- Let the police report and evidence establish what happened rather than making assumptions.
3. Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement Without Legal Advice.
Insurance adjusters may ask you to give a recorded statement about the accident. While this may seem routine, do not agree to this without consulting a lawyer first. Insurance companies often use recorded statements to twist your words and limit their payout. Instead, politely decline and tell them you will provide written details later.
4. Be Cautious About Discussing Injuries Too Soon.
Even if you feel fine immediately after the crash, some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. If you tell your insurer that you are uninjured and later develop symptoms, they may try to deny your claim. Instead, state that you are seeking medical evaluation and will provide updates as needed.
5. Keep Records of All Communications.
Document every interaction you have with your insurance company after a crash, including:
- The names and titles of the representatives or adjusters you speak with
- The dates and times of each conversation
- A summary of what you discussed with the representative or adjuster
If any disputes arise, having a record of these conversations can help protect your rights.
6. Read and Understand Your Policy Coverage.
Your auto insurance policy may include coverage for:
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle
- Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage: Helps cover medical expenses
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: Protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage
Knowing what your policy includes can help you understand your rights and prevent the insurance company from shortchanging you when you start to seek compensation for your damages.
7. Contact an Attorney Before Accepting Any Settlement.
While you may be pursuing compensation primarily through the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy, you also may be owed money from your own policy depending on the circumstances of the crash and the type of coverage you have. Despite it being your own insurance policy, it’s important to remember that the company’s loyalty lies with protecting its profits—not paying full compensation to customers like you!
Before accepting any settlement, whether it’s from your own auto insurer or the at-fault driver’s, consult with an experienced Oklahoma City car accident lawyer to ensure the offer fully covers your current and future expenses. Remember—injury settlements are “one-and-done affairs,” and you can’t ask for more money later after accepting one.
Our Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help
After a crash, the last thing you need is to deal with an uncooperative and greedy insurance company that’s out to trip you up and reduce your compensation. At Parrish DeVaughn Injury Lawyers, we help injured victims by handling all communication with all involved insurance companies, collecting evidence, and negotiating maximum settlements.
Let us take the stress of your accident and injury claim off your shoulders while you focus on getting better. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.
