Auto insurance claim

Filing an auto insurance claim is the process of requesting your insurer pay for damages or injuries after a car accident or covered event. The process involves documenting the incident, reporting it to your insurer, working with an adjuster, and receiving compensation for repairs or a settlement.

10 steps across 3 sections

1. At-Fault (Tort) States (~38 states)

  • The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the other party's damages and injuries
  • You can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurer (third-party claim) or use your own coverage (first-party claim)
  • You can sue the at-fault driver for damages exceeding insurance limits
  • Fault is determined by the insurance companies and/or police report

2. No-Fault States (~12 states + DC)

  • States: Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Utah
  • Each driver's own PIP (Personal Injury Protection) covers their medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident
  • Lawsuits for injuries are restricted unless injuries meet a "serious injury threshold" (varies by state)
  • Property damage claims still follow fault-based rules in most no-fault states
  • PIP covers medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services up to policy limits

3. Choice No-Fault States

  • Kentucky, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania allow drivers to choose between no-fault and tort coverage

Common Mistakes

  • Not calling the police
  • Admitting fault at the scene
  • Waiting too long to file
  • Not documenting enough
  • Accepting the first offer

Pro Tips

  • Use your insurer's app
  • File with your own insurer
  • Get a police report
  • See a doctor within 72 hours
  • Keep every receipt

Sources

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