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How long after a car accident can you file a claim?
I got into a car accident a week ago and I still haven't filed a claim—to be honest, the accident really shook me up, but I don’t want to run out of time. How long do I have after an accident to file a claim with my insurance?
Carlos Kirby · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m so sorry to hear about your accident; I hope you’re all right! As a rule of thumb, it’s best to file a claim as soon as you possibly can, since some states require you to report your
car accident
immediately. Some states do offer a 30 day grace period, however. But even if you live in a state with a longer grace period, you should still file as soon as you are able to—waiting too long to file a claim can have detrimental effects, such as:
- Delaying your claim payout
- Allowing you to forget pertinent information like weather conditions or objects that obstructed your view
- Arousing suspicion if the other driver submits their information several days before you do, as it can cause concern about why you waited so long to call
Car accidents can definitely shake you up, and it’s understandable to not feel up to filing a claim immediately! The important thing is just to do it as soon as you’re able so there isn’t a longer delay.
It’s also good to keep in mind that whether or not you were at fault, filing a claim can increase your insurance rates. If you need to find a new provider after filing this claim, an easy way to get the best deal on the coverage you need is through the
Jerry
app. We’ll get you customized quotes from top insurers in seconds, so all you have to do is choose the plan that works best for you—and when you’ve chosen one, we’ll also help you switch.Hopefully the claim goes well and your recovery goes smoothly. You’ve got this!
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- Gregory R.
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