After an accident, you might think you can wait a while to file a claim, but the window isn’t as wide open as you may assume. Auto insurance policies don’t give unlimited flexibility, and waiting a long time to file a claim will complicate the process for you. The rules vary based on your insurance company, yet the general idea is the same: report the accident promptly so the claim can be handled with accurate information.
How the Timing of a Report Works After a Crash
Auto policies through Fortress Insurance Agency, serving Overland Park, KS, usually expect drivers to notify the insurer “within a reasonable time.” It sounds vague, but it still carries weight. A reasonable time typically means contacting the insurer as soon as it’s safely possible after the accident, not weeks later when details start to slip away. Kansas doesn’t set a single statewide deadline for reporting accidents to insurers, so each company sets its own expectations in its policies. Some want immediate notice, others allow a short buffer, but none recommend delaying.
Why Waiting Creates Problems
When a claim is received late, the insurer may struggle to confirm what actually occurred. Damage changes as a vehicle sits, witnesses become harder to reach, and paperwork drifts out of order. If the delay affects the investigation, the company might question or reduce coverage. It’s not about penalties; it’s simply harder to evaluate a situation that’s no longer fresh. Even minor accidents can turn messy if the timeline stretches too far.
Additionally, Kansas drivers are required to report an accident to the Kansas Department of Transportation if the accident involves injury, death, or property damage of $1,000 or more.
Call Us for Information
If you’re involved in a crash, it’s best to report it right away. The insurer doesn’t require every detail on the first call, just the basics to open the claim. Stick to the facts and don’t speculate on fault. Once the claim is filed, gather documents, photos, and repair estimates. For clarity on your specific policy’s expectations, contact your insurance representative first at Fortress Insurance Agency, serving Overland Park, KS, who can help you avoid timing issues.
