Filing an auto insurance claim for an accident should be straightforward, but that’s not always the case. Accidents are often stressful, and drivers can occasionally make errors that could be costly. 

And with an average of 4.2 collision claims filed per 100 drivers per year, it’s clear that claims are an everyday risk for most drivers — so knowing how to file one properly is essential.  

The good news is that many of these common mistakes can easily be avoided. Should you find yourself in an accident, here are six errors you should avoid when filing an auto insurance claim. 

1. Not Reporting the Accident Properly

When accidents happen, the sudden impact and confusion can make it easy to forget crucial steps — but failing to report right away can create even bigger problems. Even if the damage appears minor, promptly notify your insurer — and when appropriate, law enforcement can help speed up the claim process.

While some states don’t require you to report every accident, obtaining a police report when appropriate can strengthen your claim and give the specific details that your insurer needs. Failing to report altogether, however, could lead to serious consequences such as non-renewal and legal issues. 

2. Admitting Fault Too Early

In the moment, many drivers instinctively want to apologize or accept blame — even before the full details are clear. It’s a natural reaction, often meant to show concern about the other parties involved. But admitting fault too early can put your claim at risk.

Fault is determined by law enforcement and insurers through reports, evidence, and sometimes state laws, not off-the-cuff comments made by the drivers. Even well-intentioned comments from ‘I’m sorry’ to ‘I didn’t see you there’, can often be seen as an admission of guilt. Once everything is documented accordingly, these comments could potentially influence how your claim is handled. Just as words can harm your claim, missing details can have the same effect.

3. Not Gathering the Right Information

In the midst of checking for injuries, assessing damage, and exchanging insurance details, it’s easy for drivers to not gather accurate or enough information. This may result in delays or even denials in your coverage.

Details like license plates, witness contact information, or the position of the vehicles after an accident can be easily overlooked — without enough photos or documentation, proving what actually happened becomes much harder. 

Make sure to stick to the facts and avoid speculating on who caused the accident. Focus on gathering photos and other crucial information, including correct license plate numbers, while letting insurance adjusters and police determine who is at fault.

4. Delaying Medical Attention 

After an accident, even if it is minor, it’s easy to walk away and think you’re fine — especially if there are no visible injuries. But not all injuries appear right away. Some, like concussions, whiplash, or other internal injuries, may only show symptoms hours or even days later.

Not seeking medical attention right away could put your health at risk and make it harder to link those injuries directly to the accident. Often, the insurer may question whether those injuries were accident-related if there is a significant gap between the collision and treatment. Don’t skip this step, even for minor accidents. Once your health concerns are addressed, staying on top of the process is just as important. 

5. Failing to Follow Up

Failing to follow up can be one of the biggest missteps that a driver can make. Following up with your insurance provider helps ensure that there are no errors, missing details, or any potential unfair settlements. Consistent check-ins with your provider show that you’re organized and proactive in ensuring everything is properly sorted. 

It’s okay to follow up after the time frame you were given (for example, you’ll get a call in three to five business days). It’s also okay to give a small yet gentle nudge — something like, ‘I just want to check in on the status of my claim.’ A simple follow-up can go a long way.

6. Misunderstanding Your Policy

One of the most overlooked errors that a driver can make is not knowing what their policy actually covers. It’s easy to skim through the important paperwork when you first sign up, then file it away. But every policy is different — with its own limits, exclusions, deductibles, and requirements. If you don’t review these details in advance, you may end up paying out-of-pocket expenses like outside rental cars, towing, or even medical bills. 

By understanding your policy ahead of time, staying organized, and keeping consistent communication with your insurer, the process will be much smoother.  With a little patience and preparation, you’ll feel more in control. Make sure you’re ready before an accident — start exploring auto insurance options and get a personalized quote today!