After a car accident, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance company or with the other driver’s insurer. A phone call usually starts the process, but a clear, well-documented car accident claim letter helps you get your claim taken seriously, keeps a written record and can make negotiations easier.
Here’s what to include, mistakes to avoid, and samples you can adapt.
Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. If you were seriously injured, consider talking to an attorney before sending anything to the other driver’s insurer.
Step 1: Report the Accident Promptly
Most policies require you to notify your insurer promptly after an accident. Call or use your insurer’s app or website to open a claim and get a claim number. If you’re claiming against the other driver, contact their insurer too.
Step 2: Collect Your Evidence
- Police report number and a copy of the report
- Photos and videos of the vehicles, the scene, road conditions and any injuries
- Other driver’s details: name, contact, license, insurance company and policy number
- Witness names and contact details
- Repair estimates and invoices
- Medical records and bills, if you were injured
- Proof of lost wages, if you missed work
- Rental car receipts or other costs
What to Include in a Car Accident Claim Letter
- Your name, address, phone and email
- Policy number and claim number
- Date, time and location of the accident
- A short, factual description of what happened
- Damages and losses — vehicle damage, medical costs, lost income, other expenses
- The amount you are claiming and how you calculated it
- A list of enclosed documents
- A request for a written response within a reasonable time
What NOT to Include
- Don’t admit fault or guess about what caused the accident. Describe facts only.
- Don’t exaggerate injuries or damage.
- Don’t speculate about your medical recovery. Let your doctor’s records speak.
- Don’t sign a release or accept a final settlement until you know the full extent of your damages and injuries.
Sample 1: Property Damage Claim to the Other Driver’s Insurer
[Your Name]
[Address]
[Phone] | [Email][Date]
[Insurance Company]
Attn: [Adjuster Name, if known]
[Address]Re: Property Damage Claim — Your Insured: [Driver’s Name], Policy No. [Number], Claim No. [Number], Date of Accident: [Date]
Dear [Adjuster Name],
I am writing to submit a claim for damage to my vehicle caused in an accident with your insured, [Driver’s Name], on [date] at approximately [time] at [location].
At the time of the accident, I was [factual description — e.g. “stopped at a red light on Main Street when your insured’s vehicle struck the rear of my car”]. The police responded and prepared report No. [number], which is enclosed.
My vehicle, a [year, make, model], sustained damage to the [areas]. The enclosed estimate from [repair shop] totals $[amount]. I also incurred [rental car costs / towing] of $[amount], with receipts enclosed.
Total claimed: $[total]
Enclosed:
– Police report No. [number]
– Photos of the vehicles and scene
– Repair estimate from [shop]
– Rental and towing receiptsPlease review this claim and contact me within [30] days with your decision. I can be reached at [phone] or [email].
Sincerely,
[Signature]
[Printed Name]
Sample 2: Claim Notice to Your Own Insurer
Re: Notice of Claim — Policy No. [Number], Accident on [Date]
Dear Claims Department,
This letter confirms my report of an accident involving my insured vehicle, a [year, make, model], on [date] at [location]. I first reported the accident by phone on [date] and was given claim number [number].
[Brief factual description of what happened.]
I am requesting coverage under my [collision / uninsured motorist / medical payments] coverage. Enclosed are photos, the police report and repair estimate. Please let me know if you need any further information.
Sincerely,
[Name]
Sample 3: Injury Claim Follow-Up (Short)
Re: Bodily Injury Claim — Claim No. [Number]
Dear [Adjuster],
Further to my claim regarding the accident on [date], I enclose my medical records and bills from [providers] totaling $[amount], and a letter from my employer confirming [number] days of missed work, totaling $[amount] in lost wages. I will send any further records as my treatment continues.
Sincerely,
[Name]
Tip: For injury claims, many people wait until they have finished treatment (or their doctor can estimate future care) before agreeing to any settlement, so that the full cost is known.
After You Send Your Letter
- Keep a log of every call: date, time, who you spoke to and what was said.
- Follow up in writing if you don’t hear back within the timeframe given.
- Get a second repair estimate if the insurer’s offer seems too low.
- If your claim is denied or the offer is unfair, you can appeal in writing, file a complaint with your state’s department of insurance, or speak with an attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a car accident claim?
Your policy sets deadlines for notifying your insurer, and your state sets deadlines (statutes of limitation) for lawsuits. Report the accident as soon as possible and check both.
Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer?
You’re often not required to. Many people prefer to provide facts in writing instead, and to speak with an attorney first if injuries are involved.
What if the other driver has no insurance?
Check whether your policy includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and file the claim with your own insurer.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal or insurance advice. Rules vary by state and policy. Consult a qualified professional about your situation.