Yes!
After an accident, sometimes a party might suggest resolving the damages without going through their insurance companies. However, this is a big no-no.
Most people are unaware that their insurance policy is actually a legal contract between them and their insurance carrier. One of the most important provisions of that policy states that if the insured is involved in an accident, they are legally obligated to report the accident. Failure to report a motor vehicle accident is considered a material breach of contract and gives the insurer the right to void the policy of insurance.
Aside from the above, parties to a motor vehicle accident should always report their involvement in the event they wish to file a claim for property damage or personal injuries. If they do not file a claim with their own carrier, it gives their carrier the right to disclaim and refuse to pay for any property damages or medical billing associated with the accident.
This is vital since, quite often, parties do not see any property damage or do not feel personal injuries at the time an accident takes place. However, once the adrenaline wears off, people typically begin to feel pain in their neck and back and wish to seek treatment. When they call their carrier a few days later, the first question the insurance carrier asks is why you didn’t report the accident when it took place?
For these reasons, if you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident it is imperative to report it to your insurance carrier. This will protect your interests in every regard, enable you to have your vehicle repaired and receive medical treatment. Most importantly, it will fulfill your obligations under the contract of insurance that you agreed to at the time the policy was issued.
For more information contact The Pearce Law Firm, Personal Injury and Accident Lawyers, P.C.