Do I really need to call my insurance company after my accident? ...why?

Question

I mean won't they find out anyway.

Answer 1

You are only required to contact them if you want coverage.  If you don't report it right away then decide to ask for coverage they can deny you because you policy basically states you need to report asap.  

If you got into an accident with someone and they say its your fault and sue you and you never reported it to your insurance, your insurance may deny coverage.  So if you are at fault any damages, like repairs to their vehicle, medical bills, pain and suffering comes out of your pocket.  If you are not at fault but they say you are you may have to pay attorney fees out of pocket to defend yourself.  If you report it you protect yourself.  However if you are not at fault and you already spoke with the other driver's insurance and they said they are liable and will pay for your damages I probably wouldn't report it.  

Answer 2

It is in your contract with the insurance company. You don't want them to find out when an "over priced" bill is sent to them.

Answer 3

Of course they will eventually find out anyway.  You contact them for several reasons.  One is that you agreed to do so when you signed up with them.  You agreed to tell them of any event which would affect your police.

If it's your fault, you need to let them know what happened so they can be ready when the other insurance company contacts them and asks for money.

If it not your fault, you need to let them know what happened in case the other company is being uncooperative and you need their help.

Answer 4

If the other person was at fault, and has paid you for damages to the vehicle and for any medical bills you may have incurred, then I wouldn't call the insurance company.

In almost any other case, I would.  They just might find out about it when the other driver (at fault or not) files a claim against you.

Answer 5

It really depends what sort of accident we're talking about here.

But in most cases yes..you're going to need to call your insurance company.