How to File a Car Insurance Claim Step by Step: First Calls, Documents and Deadlines

Filing an auto claim correctly from the start can speed payment and avoid disputes. The process differs depending on whether you claim on your own policy or against the other driver's insurer, and policies have notice deadlines.

At the scene and right after

1. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt or the crash is serious.
2. Move to safety if possible and call police for a report where required or helpful.
3. Exchange names, contact details, insurance information and plate numbers.
4. Photograph vehicles, damage, the scene, signs, signals and injuries.
5. Collect witness contact information.
6. Avoid admitting fault or guessing about what happened.

Notify insurers promptly

• Report the crash to your own insurer as soon as possible, since policies require prompt notice.
• Tell the insurer the basic facts, and avoid speculation.
• You may also report to the other driver's insurer, but be careful about giving recorded statements without advice.
• Ask for a claim number and the adjuster's contact information.
• Keep a log of all calls and emails.

First-party versus third-party claims

• A first-party claim is made on your own policy for your damage and, depending on your coverage, injuries, using collision, medical payments, personal injury protection or uninsured motorist coverage.
• A third-party claim is made against the at-fault driver's liability insurance.
• In no-fault states, your own policy often pays medical costs first regardless of fault.
• You can sometimes use both routes, depending on the situation.

Working with the adjuster

The adjuster investigates, inspects the car and decides fault and value. Provide requested documents, respond promptly and be accurate. You are not required to accept the first estimate, and you can get your own repair estimates. See our guide on whether to give a recorded statement to an adjuster.

Repairs, total loss and rentals

You can usually choose your repair shop. If repair costs exceed a set share of value, the car may be declared a total loss and you are paid actual cash value. Rental coverage depends on your policy or the other driver's liability. Keep receipts. See our guides on total loss and diminished value.

Injuries and medical bills

Seek medical care promptly and keep records. Injury claims may take longer and may require a lawyer if injuries are serious or fault is disputed. Do not settle an injury claim until you know the extent of your injuries.

If your claim is delayed or denied

Ask for a written explanation, review your policy and appeal in writing. Complain to your state insurance department if the insurer is unreasonable. See our guide to car insurance claim denials.

Real-life scenarios

1. A driver reports the crash the same day and gets a claim number and rental coverage.
2. A driver in a no-fault state uses personal injury protection for medical costs.
3. A driver gets a second repair estimate to dispute a low offer.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Admitting fault at the scene.
• Delaying notice to the insurer.
• Giving recorded statements without understanding the risks.
• Accepting the first offer without checking.
• Not keeping records and receipts.
• Signing releases too early.

Questions to ask a professional

• Which coverages apply to my claim?
• Who is likely at fault?
• Is the car a total loss?
• What rental coverage do I have?
• What deadlines apply to my claim?

A practical action plan

1. Ensure safety and gather information.
2. Report the crash to your insurer promptly.
3. Document damage and injuries.
4. Work with the adjuster and get estimates.
5. Follow up in writing and appeal if needed.

Terms you may hear

• Collision coverage: pays for your car damage regardless of fault.
• Liability coverage: pays for damage you cause to others.
• Adjuster: the insurer's claim investigator.
• Total loss: when repair cost is too high relative to value.
• First-party claim: a claim on your own policy.

Frequently asked questions