How to File an Insurance Claim After a Car Accident

A properly filed claim can mean thousands more in your settlement. Follow this guide to do it right.

📞 Need Help Filing? (818) 482-2260

Two Types of Claims You Can File

First-Party Claim

Filed with YOUR insurance company

When to use: When you have collision coverage and want repairs done quickly, or when the other driver is uninsured.

Pros:

+ Faster processing
+ Guaranteed coverage (if policy allows)
+ Less confrontational

Cons:

- May increase your premiums
- Subject to your deductible
- May not cover all damages

Third-Party Claim

Filed with the OTHER driver's insurance

When to use: When the other driver was at fault and you want them (or their insurer) to pay.

Pros:

+ No deductible
+ Doesn't affect your premiums
+ Can include pain & suffering

Cons:

- Other insurer may dispute fault
- Often takes longer
- May require more negotiation

6 Steps to File Your Claim

Report the Accident to Your Insurance

Within 24-48 hours

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident.

• Call the claims hotline (usually 24/7)
• Have your policy number ready
• Provide basic accident details
• Get your claim number immediately
• Ask about rental car coverage

💡 Pro Tip: Report to YOUR insurance first, even if the other driver was at fault.

Gather Your Documentation

Before your first adjuster call

Collect all evidence and paperwork related to the accident.

• Police report (or report number)
• Photos of damage and scene
• Other driver's information
• Witness contact information
• Medical records and bills
• Repair estimates

💡 Pro Tip: The more documentation you have, the stronger your claim will be.

Get Your Vehicle Inspected

1-3 days after reporting

An adjuster will need to assess the damage to your vehicle.

• Schedule inspection promptly
• Keep vehicle as-is until inspected
• Get your own repair estimates too
• Take photos before and after inspection
• Ask for a copy of the damage report

💡 Pro Tip: You have the right to choose your own repair shop—don't let the insurer pressure you.

Document Your Injuries

Ongoing

Keep detailed records of all injuries and medical treatment.

• See a doctor within 72 hours
• Follow all treatment plans
• Keep every medical receipt
• Document pain levels daily
• Track missed work days
• Note impacts on daily life

💡 Pro Tip: Never say you're "fine" to the insurance company if you're still in pain or treating.

Calculate Your Total Damages

Before negotiating

Add up all your economic and non-economic damages.

• Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• All medical bills (past and estimated future)
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Rental car expenses
• Out-of-pocket costs
• Pain and suffering (non-economic)

💡 Pro Tip: Your claim is worth more than just your bills—factor in pain, suffering, and inconvenience.

Negotiate Your Settlement

After reaching maximum medical improvement

Review the offer and negotiate for fair compensation.

• Wait for a formal written offer
• Don't accept the first offer—it's usually low
• Counter with your documented damages
• Be prepared to justify your numbers
• Get final settlement in writing
• Consider consulting an attorney

💡 Pro Tip: Statistics show claimants with attorneys receive 3x higher settlements on average.

📋 Documents You'll Need

Document	Where to Get It
Police Report	Local police department
Insurance Policy	Your files or insurer portal
Medical Records	Healthcare providers
Photos of Damage	Your phone/camera
Repair Estimates	Body shops (get 2-3)
Proof of Lost Wages	Employer letter/pay stubs
Expense Receipts	Keep all originals

Need Help with Your Insurance Claim?

Our attorneys have helped thousands of clients navigate the claims process and maximize their settlements.

📞 Free Consultation: (818) 482-2260