Car Insurance Is there a time limit for filing a claim after a “not at fault” accident? View Carriers Please enter valid zip Compare top carriers in your area By Insure.com's Editor | Updated on May 23, 2023 Why you can trust Insure.com Quality Verified At Insure.com, we are committed to providing the timely, accurate and expert information consumers need to make smart insurance decisions. All our content is written and reviewed by industry professionals and insurance experts. Our team carefully vets our rate data to ensure we only provide reliable and up-to-date insurance pricing. We follow the highest editorial standards. Our content is based solely on objective research and data gathering. We maintain strict editorial independence to ensure unbiased coverage of the insurance industry. There’s usually a time limit, but it varies by location and insurance company. It’s important to report the accident and start the claim process as soon as possible. State statutes of limitation Different states may have different statutes of limitations for filing a claim. These statutes typically fall within a range of 1 to 10 years. It’s important to know the specific time limits applicable in your state. Prompt reporting Some insurance policies may not set a specific time frame but require prompt claim reporting. It’s always recommended to report the accident as soon as possible to your insurance provider. Type of damage The time limit for filing a claim may vary depending on the type of damages involved. For example, the statute of limitations for filing a bodily injury claim may be shorter than it is for filing for comprehensive or property damage. Remember, it’s best to consult with your insurance provider or seek legal advice to fully understand the time limits and requirements for filing a claim in your specific situation. Some states have specific rules regarding when you must file a claim with an insurer. For example, no-fault rules apply in New York, and you must provide written notice of your claim within 30 days of the day after the accident. Final thoughts Don’t wait too long to file a claim after a “not at fault” accident. Check your state laws and contact your insurance company for specific details. Reporting the accident promptly to your insurance company can help you get the compensation you deserve on time. In case you missed it Best Car Insurance Companies of 2024 Car insurance rates by state in 2024 What is full coverage car insurance? How much does car insurance cost for seniors in 2024? A complete guide to adding a teenager to your car insurance policy in 2024 What to do after a car accident that’s not your fault Total warfare: What to do when your auto insurer totals your car Car insurance claims: Who gets the claims check? Used car insurance costs: Most and least expensive models to insure The Best Car Insurance for Bad Credit of 2021 The best car insurance companies for speeding tickets Car insurance after a DUI Guide to car insurance discounts Proper insurance coverage for college-bound children How to read actually understand your auto insurance policy Car Insurance Companies New driver insurance grace period: What you need to know How much do insurance agents make Autonomous cars: 5 delightful and 5 distressing things Busted! Part 1: How insurance companies spot bogus claims Insurance options for rideshare drivers 10 things that are illegal but shouldn’t be 1/1 On this page State statutes of limitationPrompt reportingType of damageFinal thoughts Get instant quotes now ! Please enter valid zip Get Quotes