What happens when someone files a claim on your auto insurance?

Asked by: Mr. Eli Herman PhD  |  Last update: September 7, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (20 votes)

In the days following the accident, if the other driver files an insurance claim against you, your insurance company will contact you to let you know. The insurance adjuster will explain your options and start investigating the accident. On rare occasions, the other driver may contact you directly via email or letter.

What happens when someone files a car insurance claim against you?

If you receive a car insurance claim against you, there is a good chance that your auto insurance premiums will be affected. This is common practice among car insurance companies. Your auto insurance premiums may go up, even if a false claim is filed against you.

Does your insurance go up if someone files a claim against you?

Insurance claims can cause your insurance rate to increase for a temporary amount of time, typically three to five years.

Should I file an insurance claim if I am not at fault?

Always File a Claim, Regardless of Who Was At-Fault

One of the primary questions we receive from clients who have been in an accident is whether they should report the accident to their own auto insurance carrier, particularly when the accident was not their fault. And the answer to that question is: always.

What is the downside of filing an insurance claim?

It could increase your premiums

When determining your premiums, insurance companies consider your likelihood of filing a future claim — which could cost them money. The higher your perceived risk, the more likely you are to pay more in premiums. Your claims history tends to play a direct role.

Should I file a claim on my insurance or the at-fault party's insurance following an auto accident?

34 related questions found

Is it better to file a claim with your insurance or theirs?

After a car accident, you should notify your insurance company and file a claim, and not deal with the other driver's insurer. Except in rare circumstances, it is not wise to contact them.

What is one of the most common reasons for a claim being rejected by an insurance company?

9 top reasons your claim is denied
  • Incomplete information. Claims often get denied due to incomplete information. ...
  • Service not covered. ...
  • Claim filed too late. ...
  • Coding or billing error. ...
  • Insurer believes the procedure wasn't necessary. ...
  • Duplicate claim filed. ...
  • Pre-existing condition not covered. ...
  • Lack of pre-authorization.

What to do if someone claims you hit their car?

What to Do If Someone Falsely Claims You Hit Their Car
  1. Evaluate the Situation.
  2. Speak to the Other Party Politely.
  3. Take Photos and Videos.
  4. Gather Witnesses.
  5. Check for Nearby Cameras.
  6. Report the Incident.
  7. Explain Your Side Clearly.
  8. When to Consult an Attorney.

How does insurance work if it's not your fault?

Who pays in a no-fault accident? If there's an accident between two drivers, each party's PIP coverage typically pays for their respective medical bills and/or wage loss up to their policies' limits, no matter who caused the accident.

What happens if someone who isn't on your insurance crashes your car Progressive?

Allowing another licensed driver to borrow your vehicle is known as "permissive use," which means you give someone, who isn't listed on your car insurance policy, permission to operate your vehicle. If they're involved in an accident, your auto insurance may pay for the damages and injuries, up to your coverage limits.

Will a small claim affect my insurance?

Many assume that only major claims affect premiums, but even minor claims can lead to increased rates. In fact, it's often the reporting of an incident, rather than the insurance claim itself, that triggers higher premiums.

Do I call the other person's insurance if they hit me?

You do likely have to talk to your own insurance company as they will need your account of what happened. There is, however, times when speaking to the other driver's insurance company will benefit you and will depend heavily on the specifics of your case.

Should I talk to the other person's insurance company?

After an accident, it's advised not to speak with the other driver's insurance company. You are not legally required to speak with the other driver's insurance company or give a recorded statement. They often employ tactics to use your statements against you, potentially minimizing your payout.

What to do after a minor car accident not your fault USA?

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Car Accident?
  • Safety first: Move to a safe area as soon as you can. ...
  • Check for injuries: If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 or ask someone else to call. ...
  • Call the police and report the accident: Even if the accident is minor, it is good to get an official police report.

Should I call my insurance if it wasn't my fault progressive?

Start the claims process

Regardless of who's at fault, it's a good idea to inform your car insurance company that an accident occurred.

Should I file an insurance claim if I am at fault?

If you damage someone else's vehicle during a significant collision, and you're at fault, you should always file a claim.

What to do if someone falsely claims you hit their car in the UK?

What to do if someone falsely claims you hit their car in the UK. If someone falsely claims you hit their car, you should inform your insurer and gather evidence - for example, witness statements or photos and videos that show you weren't there at the time of the incident.

Does insurance pay if you hit someone?

Your auto liability insurance does not cover your medical expenses or car repairs after a hit-and-run. Liability coverage helps pay for someone else's expenses if you cause a car accident that injures them or damages their property.

What is a dirty claim?

The term dirty claim refers to the “claim submitted with errors or one that requires manual processing to resolve problems or is rejected for payment”.

How long does it take to investigate a car insurance claim in the UK?

Quick Answer: In the UK, insurers typically have 21 days to acknowledge receipt of a claim and then a further 3 months to investigate and provide a decision on liability.

Why would a car insurance company deny a claim?

Driving without a license, exceeding the speed limit, and driving under the influence (DUI) are some of the most common causes of denial of an insurance claim. Making illegal modifications to the vehicle can also be grounds for claim rejection.