Car accidents can be a stressful, traumatic event in anyone’s life. You may be filled with questions and concerns and not know where to begin. One important consideration is the deadlines for reporting an incident to your insurance provider. The Ward Firm is here to answer the question, “How soon after an accident must it be reported to insurance in California?”
Our Background
Our team at The Ward Firm has spent years aiding the people of Sacramento and Northern California with their car accident cases. Our founding attorney, Justin L Ward, knows the workings of insurance companies, having previously worked as a defense attorney for insurance companies. Mr. Ward has received recognition for his legal accomplishments, having been included as one of Sacramento Magazine’s 2023 Top Personal Injury Lawyers.
Sacramento Car Accidents
Vehicle accidents are a sadly common occurrence both in Sacramento County and across California. In 2022, Sacramento had the highest rate of fatal car crashes for any big city in California, with a rate of 14.7 per 100,000 people. Sacramento County, in the same year, saw 11,157 people injured or killed in car accidents. You don’t have to be on the I-5 or the El Dorado Freeway for a crash to occur.
When You Are Required to Report an Accident to Your Insurance Provider
The exact circumstances in which you are required to report a car accident to your insurance provider depend on the plan. Most plans specify prompt notification, meaning anywhere from within 24 hours to three days of the incident. In your report, you must provide the following details:
- Time, date, and location of the crash
- Weather conditions
- Vehicles involved
- Any injuries
- Property damages
- Insurance information of other drivers involved
You must report the accident even if you don’t wish to file a claim in case others pursue action. Failure to report an accident within the deadline in your insurance plan can result in diminished settlements or a full denial of your claim.
What Not to Say to Your Insurance Provider
When you alert your insurance provider of the car accident, make sure to avoid saying certain things that can jeopardize your claim. The following are guidelines on what not to say:
- Never say that the accident was your fault. Even if you feel guilt, refrain from admitting any liability.
- Do not say you are not hurt or uninjured. Some injuries sustained in a crash can take days or weeks before their symptoms appear.
- Avoid speculation. If you guess at a detail and are proved wrong later, it can damage your trustworthiness. Stick to facts you are sure of.
- Never accept the first settlement offer. Consult your car accident attorney before agreeing to a final sum.
Agencies to Whom You Must Report an Accident
You are legally required to notify several state agencies depending on the circumstances of your accident. You must report the accident within 24 hours to the California Highway Patrol if any injuries are sustained. The California Department of Motor Vehicles must receive an official Report of Accident form within 10 days of the incident if any injury occurred or damages exceeding $100 in value.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
Dealing with insurance companies in the aftermath of an accident can be frustrating. The last thing you may want to do is discuss your case in great detail when you should be focused on recovery. Hire a car accident lawyer who can handle any required communication with insurance providers.
Insurance providers say they care, but in reality, they prioritize maximizing their profits. Your Sacramento car accident lawyer can put your needs first and protect you against predatory business practices. If they deny your claim, they can help you file an appeal. If your appeal is denied as well, your car accident attorney can provide you with additional legal pathways forward.
FAQs
Q: How Soon Should You Report an Accident to Your Insurance Provider in California?
A: In California, you should report your car accident to your insurance provider as soon as you can. The exact timeline varies depending on your plan, but generally requires you to report the accident within a few days. Failure to notify your insurance company can damage potential payments or result in your claim being automatically denied.
Q: When Are You Not Required to Notify Your Insurance Provider in California?
A: Some car accidents in California do not require you to notify your insurance provider. One case where you can avoid telling your insurance is if you are the only driver, no one was hurt, and nothing was damaged. Some may wish to settle damages out of pocket without insurance, but this is strongly discouraged. Failure to report can leave you open to potential legal and financial repercussions.
Q: What if Your Insurance Denies Your California Car Accident Claim?
A: You have a few options if your insurance provider denies your car accident claim. The first step is to request a written explanation for the denial. This will help you understand the company’s reasoning and can be a basis for a rebuttal. Gather evidence that supports your claim, such as insurance policies or crash reports, and file an appeal. Your car accident attorney can aid you in this process and additional legal actions if your appeal is denied as well.
Q: What Is the Deadline to Submit an Insurance Claim in California?
A: The deadline for submitting an insurance claim depends on the claim you want to file and your insurance plan. An auto insurance plan can require reports within a few days of the accident, whereas medical claims may have deadlines that range from months to a year after the incident. Review your specific insurance policy to see the relevant timelines. If still confused, your car accident attorney can help you find your case’s deadline.
Meet With a Car Accident Lawyer Today
Our team at The Ward Firm understands how difficult this period can be. We can aid you in any insurance or personal injury claim issues you may have.
Contact us today for an initial consultation where we can learn your story and provide you with pathways forward when dealing with insurance companies. You may also visit our Sacramento office—located on Northgate Boulevard just north of the I-80 along Steelhead Creek.
