One of the most common questions drivers ask after an accident is:
“The accident wasn’t my fault. Do I still need to tell my insurance company?”
The short answer is:
Yes, in most cases, you should report the accident to your insurance company—even if the other driver is clearly at fault.
Many California drivers assume they only need to contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company. While that may seem logical, failing to notify your own insurance carrier can sometimes create unnecessary problems later.
At Starwest Insurance Services, we’ve helped many clients navigate accidents, claims, and insurance disputes. Here’s why reporting the accident is usually the smart move.
Why You Should Notify Your Insurance Company
Your insurance company works for you.
Even if you don’t intend to file a claim under your own policy, notifying them creates a record of the accident and allows them to assist if problems arise.
Benefits include:
- Documentation of the accident
- Protection if the other driver changes their story
- Assistance with claim delays
- Help recovering your deductible if you use collision coverage
- Guidance through the claims process
What If the Other Driver Admits Fault?
That’s great—but don’t rely solely on a verbal admission.
Sometimes drivers:
- Change their story later
- Stop answering their insurance company’s calls
- Discover their policy has lapsed
- Have inadequate coverage
What seems like an easy claim today can become a complicated claim tomorrow.
California Is Full of Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers
Unfortunately, many drivers on California roads carry:
- No insurance
- Minimum limits
- Expired policies
If the at-fault driver has no coverage, your own insurance company may become your best resource.
This is especially true if you carry:
- Collision Coverage
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage
- Medical Payments Coverage
When You Should Definitely Call Your Insurance Company
Always notify your insurer if:
Someone Is Injured
Even minor injuries can become significant claims.
Significant Vehicle Damage Exists
Modern vehicles often have hidden damage.
The Other Driver Is Uninsured
Your carrier may need to assist immediately.
The Other Driver Leaves the Scene
Hit-and-run claims should be reported immediately.
Liability Is Disputed
Your company can help protect your interests.
You Plan to Use Your Collision Coverage
Your insurer must open a claim.
When Might You Not File a Claim?
Reporting an accident and filing a claim are two different things.
You can notify your insurance company without necessarily filing a claim.
For example:
- Minor cosmetic damage
- Other carrier handling repairs promptly
- No injuries
- No dispute regarding fault
Many clients choose to report the incident while allowing the at-fault carrier to handle the damages.
Will Reporting a Not-at-Fault Accident Increase My Rates?
This is one of the biggest concerns drivers have.
In California, a not-at-fault accident generally should not affect your premium the same way an at-fault accident would.
However, insurance companies consider many factors when determining rates, including:
- Claims history
- Driving record
- Location
- Vehicle type
- Overall risk profile
Every situation is different.
What Happens If I Don’t Report It?
Sometimes nothing.
But sometimes problems appear later.
Examples include:
Hidden Injuries
Whiplash and back injuries may not appear immediately.
Hidden Vehicle Damage
What looks like a scratched bumper could become a $5,000 repair.
Coverage Problems
The at-fault driver’s insurance company may deny coverage.
Liability Disputes
The other driver may later claim you caused the accident.
Without prompt reporting, resolving these issues can become more difficult.
Option 1: File Through the Other Driver’s Insurance
Pros:
- No deductible
- At-fault carrier pays damages
Cons:
- Investigation delays
- Coverage disputes
- Slower claims process
Option 2: File Through Your Own Insurance
Pros:
- Faster claim handling
- Your company works for you
- Easier repair process
Cons:
- Deductible may apply initially
If your company successfully recovers from the at-fault driver, your deductible may be reimbursed through subrogation.
What Information Should You Gather?
Immediately after the accident:
✔ Driver’s license
✔ Insurance card
✔ Registration
✔ Vehicle photos
✔ License plate
✔ Witness information
✔ Police report number
The more documentation you have, the stronger your claim will be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I call my insurance company even if the accident wasn’t my fault?
Generally yes. Reporting protects your interests and creates documentation.
Will my rates increase if I wasn’t at fault?
Not-at-fault accidents are generally treated differently than at-fault accidents, but every situation is unique.
Can I go directly through the other driver’s insurance?
Yes. Many claims are handled this way.
What if the other driver’s insurance won’t return my calls?
Your own insurance company may be able to help if you have applicable coverage.
What’s the biggest mistake people make?
Waiting too long to report the accident or assuming the other driver will handle everything correctly.
The Bottom Line
Even if the accident was clearly not your fault, it’s usually a good idea to notify your insurance company.
You don’t necessarily have to file a claim, but having your insurer aware of the situation can provide valuable protection if complications arise later.
Think of it as creating a safety net.
Hopefully you won’t need it—but you’ll be glad it’s there if something goes wrong.
Need Help After an Accident?
If you’ve been involved in an accident and have questions about liability, deductibles, uninsured motorists, rental reimbursement, or the claims process, contact Starwest Insurance Services.
Starwest Insurance Services, LLC
13752 Goldenwest St.
Westminster, CA 92683
(714) 893-7271
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