Why skipping a police report can derail your claim — even after a minor accident.
Fender benders happen every day, and in the moment, it can feel easier to just swap insurance information and drive away. But failing to file a police report can cause major headaches later — from delays in your claim to outright denials. Even if the damage seems minor, documentation matters.
Why It Matters
A police report is often the most objective piece of evidence in a claim. It records details like the time, location, weather, and parties involved — and can include diagrams or witness statements. Without it, you may end up in a “your word vs. theirs” dispute, which insurers love to exploit. Some companies even require a report before they’ll approve certain claims, especially in injury or uninsured motorist situations.
Example: A Raleigh driver was rear-ended but skipped the report to “save time.” Weeks later, the at-fault driver denied being involved — and without official documentation, her claim stalled indefinitely.
When You Must File (by State)
Laws vary, but many states require a police report if there’s any injury, death, or significant property damage (often defined as $500–$1,000+). Some also mandate reporting if a vehicle is towed or a driver is suspected of impairment. In North Carolina, you must file if there’s injury or more than $1,000 in damage — even for seemingly minor accidents.
If officers can’t respond to the scene, most states allow you to file an official report online or at a police station within 24–48 hours. Meeting that deadline can mean the difference between a smooth claim and a denial.
What to Do Instead (If You Skipped It)
If you’ve already left the scene without reporting, all isn’t lost — but you’ll need to get creative with your documentation. Start by gathering every piece of evidence you can:
Photos of the vehicles, damage, and surrounding area
Screenshots of any texts or calls with the other driver
Names and statements from any witnesses
GPS or dashcam footage if available
Also, write down your own detailed account of the accident while it’s still fresh in your mind — times, directions, what was said, and any contributing factors. This record can be vital if the other party changes their story.
While it’s tempting to avoid the hassle of filing a report, the short-term convenience rarely outweighs the long-term risk. A few minutes of paperwork can save you weeks of stress and potentially thousands in losses.
If you’ve been in an accident and need help keeping your claim on track, Extennsion can walk you through the process and fight to protect your payout.