You are here:

Auto Insurance Claims/no police report/minor damage--- NY state

Advertisement

Expert: - 3/15/2010


Question
I was recently involved in a very minor accident on the way to work. My rear bumper was bumped by the other cars driver side quarter panel. There is no damage to my car at all. Not even any scratches. His quarter panel needs to be pushed back in slightly but there is no paint damage,dents or scratches. No police report was filed and we swapped insurance information at the scene. Nobody was injured and we were the only people in our respective vehicles. I don't think it is worth reporting to insurance on his end as the damage was very minimal and I am not planning to report it. If he does report it, without a police report or any clear indication of fault, how would this be sorted out? Thank you very much for your time and help in this matter.

Answer
If the claim is reported, the insurers will each ask the parties to describe what happened.  They will then determine who was at fault and pay the claim accordingly.

I'm guessing you backed into his vehicle based on your description.  If this is the case, your insurer will pay for his damages.

You could offer to pay him out of pocket and avoid reporting.  He could get an estimate at a reputable repairer and you just pay him.  But he will have to agree and he is not required to do so.  Keep in mind you are liable or the full repair, and sometimes they find hidden damage when they start the repair.  You are also liable for the cost of a rental while the car is being repaired.

If he reports, make sure you tell the truth.  Lying to an insurer is insurance fraud and it is a felony.

Auto Insurance Claims

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Claims Guy

Expertise

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Experience

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.