Here are things that you should not say to an insurance company after a car accident: Don’t make any statements right after an accident. You may be in shock, confused, or stressed. Don’t admit fault.

Generally, a no-fault accident won’t cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because the at-fault party’s insurance provider will be responsible for your medical expenses and vehicle repairs. In almost every state, a non-fault claim is filed against the auto insurance policy of the driver who is at fault.

It’s best practice to call your insurance company and file a claim when you’ve been hit by another car and the damage is severe, or you’re at fault in an accident. However, filing a claim will almost certainly increase your premium. If no other party is involved, you can file a claim on your insurance.

If nobody has been injured as a result of the accident, there’s no legal requirement to provide details of your car insurance, but it might speed up the claims process if you exchange insurance company details and policy numbers.

Even if you’re not at fault, you can make a claim with your insurance company for payment of damages and injuries — if you have the right coverages. If you have collision insurance, file a claim with your own carrier. It will pay for the cost of repairs or total loss of your vehicle.

Who Determines Fault. The insurance companies that insured the drivers who were involved in the accidents determine fault. They assign each party a relative percentage of fault, based on the drivers’ conduct. Ultimately, insurance adjusters look to state laws to determine which driver acted negligently.

Do I have to pay my car insurance excess if someone claims against me? No, the excess – both voluntary and compulsory – is the amount you pay towards your own claim or repairs, so you won’t have to pay the excess if a third party is claiming against you.

1. Tell your insurer about the accident, no matter how small it was.
2. Ask if your policy includes an accident forgiveness clause.
3. Shop around for a new policy.
4. Increase your deductible.
5. Take advantage of other discounts.
6. Take a driving class.