How to handle the insurer
- Report to your own insurer promptly.
Most policies require it — and reporting is not the same as making a claim.
- You don't have to give the other insurer a recorded statement.
It is fine to say you'll follow up once you have the full picture.
- Stick to the facts and don't guess.
"I don't know yet" is a safe, honest answer.
- Don't accept the first offer on the spot.
Early offers are often made before the full cost is clear.
- Keep a paper trail.
Photos, the police report, medical notes, and a record of every call.
Most of the stress after an accident comes from dealing with insurance, but it gets much easier once you know the shape of it. This guide walks through it calmly; it pairs with what to do after a car accident.
Being cooperative and being careful are not opposites. You can be honest and helpful while still taking your time.
Your insurer versus theirs
You generally have a duty to cooperate with your own insurer, which is why reporting promptly matters. You do not owe the other driver's insurer the same cooperation — in particular, you are not required to give them a recorded statement, and it is reasonable to be more guarded with them.
Reporting is not the same as claiming
Telling your insurer an accident happened is simply meeting your policy obligation. It keeps your options open and does not commit you to a claim. You can decide on a claim later, once you understand the damage and any injuries.
The recorded statement
The other insurer may ask for a recorded statement early on. You can decline or delay this. If you do speak with them, keep it factual, do not speculate about your injuries before you have seen a doctor, and never feel pressured to answer on the spot.
Valuing your claim
People often undercount their own claim — forgetting future medical costs, ongoing treatment, or time off work. Before accepting anything, make sure the figure covers the full picture, not just today's bills.
Read nextWhat not to say to an insurance adjusterThe phrases that quietly weaken a claim — and what to say instead.→
First offers are often low
An early settlement offer is not the final word, and you do not have to accept it. If it does not cover your repairs, costs and any injury, it is reasonable to say you will consider it and respond later.
When it's worth talking to someone
If you were injured, fault is disputed, or the insurer is not engaging fairly, a free, no-obligation conversation can help you understand what your claim is really worth.
- Report to your own insurer promptly; reporting is not claiming.
- You don't have to give the other insurer a recorded statement.
- Stick to facts, don't guess, and don't speculate about injuries.
- Don't undercount your claim — include future costs and lost time.
- First offers are often low; you can take your time.
Common questions
Do I have to report the accident to my insurer?
Can I refuse a recorded statement to the other insurer?
Should I accept the first offer?
What if the insurer isn't being fair?
Sources & how we keep this accurate
Written and edited by The Accident Advisory editorial team and checked against the sources below. Last reviewed June 2026. (See our Editorial Policy.)
- Insurance Information Institute (III) — the auto insurance claims process. iii.org (accessed June 2026).
- State departments of insurance — consumer guidance on claims and recorded statements (varies by state). (accessed June 2026).
- USA.gov — filing a car accident claim. usa.gov (accessed June 2026).