Yes, you do have to report an accident to your insurance if it wasn’t your fault. Regardless of whether or not the law requires you to report the accident to your auto insurance provider, many insurance companies require you to report all accidents, even the ones you don’t cause.
Our Marietta car accident lawyers believe every client is more than just a case number—you deserve personalized attention, compassion, and real results. We are a smaller firm by choice, which allows us to return your calls and give your case the attention it deserves.
Reporting the Accident Will Ensure Compliance With the Terms of Your Insurance Policy
Many insurance policies require drivers to report all the accidents they are involved in. Even if you had no part in causing the crash you were hurt in, your insurer will most likely require you to report the incident.
Failing to report an accident to your insurance, even if you weren’t at fault, ccould result in a number of unwanted consequences. Here are some of the penalties you could face if you fail to report the collision to your insurer:
- Denial of future claims related to the crash
- Higher insurance premiums
- Policy cancellation, in some cases
We know how overwhelming the aftermath of a car accident feels, especially when dealing with the insurer. With our diligence, responsiveness, and commitment to excellent results, you’ll have the support you deserve to handle the insurance claims process and move past this unfortunate incident.
Notifying Your Insurer About the Accident Will Make the Claims Process More Efficient
Another reason why you have to report an accident to your insurance, even if it wasn’t your fault, involves making the claims process more efficient. Notifying your insurance company about the crash will help streamline the claims process and prevent potential complications.
Notifying your insurer about what happened will allow them to communicate directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider, gather necessary details, and ensure that your claim is handled properly. Failing to report the accident promptly could lead to delays or disputes, especially if the other driver’s insurer tries to deny liability.
Our lawyers are leaders in the bar association. We have the knowledge and resources required to handle even the most catastrophic cases. No matter how serious your accident was, count on us to deal with the insurance company and pursue a fair outcome.
Recover Damages from Your Insurer if the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured
In some cases, you might need to report an accident to your insurance that wasn’t your fault if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance. In this case, you may be able to recover damages from your uninsured motorist policy or another similar policy.
While motorists are required to carry insurance, some fail to do so, and others allow their policies to lapse. If an uninsured motorist has collided with your vehicle, make sure to notify your insurer and reach out to a skilled car accident attorney soon. Taking swift action will ensure all relevant filing deadlines are met.
If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you’ll also want to hire an attorney to help with your claim. A lawyer will deal with insurance providers and work hard to obtain the following damages for you:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Decreased earning ability
- Vehicle repair costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
Don’t Wait to Report an Accident to Your Insurance
If you’ve been in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you should report it to your insurance company ASAP. Some insurance policies require policyholders to report any accident within a certain timeframe. In addition, getting started on the claims process soon will also ensure that other important filing deadlines are met.
According to Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases, found in GA Code § 9-3-33, you have two years from the date of the collision to settle your insurance claim or file a lawsuit. If you fail to comply with this important requirement, you’ll be forced to go without the damages you deserve to cover medical bills and get back on your feet.
A lawyer will explain why you should report the accident to your insurance and answer any questions you have about the statute of limitations.
Schedule a free consultation with a lawyer today to learn more about the claims process. Our highly experienced and trained staff will provide the necessary information for you to navigate this process.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Knowledgeable Car Accident Attorney
You have to report an accident to your insurance even if it wasn’t your fault. However, doing so is only the first step of the claims process. Filing a claim for fair damages is a long and difficult process, especially if you are dealing with a debilitating or painful injury.
Fortunately, the trusted attorneys at Jones & Swanson will handle your entire claim, giving you the freedom and time you deserve to focus on recovering from your injuries. Our firm has over 45 years of combined experience, so you feel comfortable knowing your claim is in excellent hands.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and get started on your case.
