Can Someone File a Claim on My Car Insurance Without Me Knowing?


Updated: October 3, 2024

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

When a claim is filed against your car insurance, it's routine for your insurance company to contact you quickly. This immediate communication is part of the standard procedure to keep you informed.

Your insurance company is unlikely to move forward with a claim without informing you. They operate as a for-profit entity and their bottom line matters. This means they won't hastily payout a claim. Even if there's a police report, your insurance provider will typically involve an adjuster and conduct a thorough investigation before making any decisions.

Key Takeaways

If someone files a claim against your car insurance, your insurance provider will typically notify you promptly, even if you weren't initially aware of the incident.

In cases of fraudulent or false claims, gather evidence, notify your insurer, cooperate with investigations and consider seeking legal counsel to protect your rights.

Insurance companies have systematic processes in place to verify claims, involving claim adjusters, witness statements, police reports and expert opinions to ensure the validity of claims and determine appropriate compensation.

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How Can Someone Make a Claim on Your Insurance Without You Knowing?

Being involved in a minor accident or causing unnoticed damage to another vehicle can lead to unexpected insurance claims against you. Whether it's a fender bender you thought was insignificant, a third-party claim filed directly with your insurer or a situation where your insurance details were obtained through official channels, formal claims can be made against your insurance.

    accident2 icon

    You were involved in an accident and shared insurance details

    • Imagine you're involved in a minor fender bender. You might think there's no significant damage and decide to leave without formally exchanging information. However, if you left any identifiable details behind (like a note or a witness saw your license plate), the other party can use that to file a claim.
    • Even minor damages can sometimes lead to expensive repairs. If the other party decides to fix their vehicle and files a claim — even if you initially agreed to settle it on your own — your insurance premiums could increase if you're found at fault.
    carAccident icon

    Someone filed a third-party claim against you

    • In some jurisdictions, if you're deemed responsible for an accident, the injured party can directly approach your insurance company for compensation without notifying you first.
    • This can be a surprise, especially if you thought the accident was minor or not your fault. Your insurance company will investigate the claim, which might involve taking statements from both parties and any witnesses.
    carVsCar icon

    The other driver got your insurance information from the DMV, police or insurer

    • If an individual believes you're responsible for damages or injuries but doesn't have your insurance details, they might obtain them through official channels like the DMV, police reports or by contacting their own insurance provider.
    • Such claims can be more formal and might involve legal processes. Cooperating with your insurance company and providing any necessary documentation or evidence is essential.
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    You weren’t aware of an accident or damage

    • Let's say you accidentally scrape a parked car but don't notice the damage. The owner of the damaged car can note your vehicle's registration details and file a claim against your insurance.
    • Even if you weren't aware of the damage, you could still be held liable. It's always a good idea to check for any potential damages in tight parking situations or if you feel you might have made contact with another vehicle.

Do You Need To Tell Your Insurance Provider About Accidents?

Some insurance policies mandate that all accidents be reported, regardless of who's at fault. Additionally, in certain jurisdictions, there are legal requirements to inform your insurer about accidents, especially if they involve injuries or significant damage.

Reporting is not just about compliance; it's a protective measure. Having a record can be beneficial if the other party decides to file a claim against you. Accidents can sometimes reveal more damage over time, so informing your insurer keeps your options open for future claims.

While some fear a rise in premiums after reporting, the consequences of not informing your insurer might be more problematic. It's often wise to keep your insurer in the loop about any accident, no matter how minor it may seem.

What Happens When Someone Files an Insurance Claim Against You?

If you were involved in an accident, you should expect someone to file a claim against your insurance. In the best case — you took photos, have complete documentation and exchanged insurance information with the other driver. Whether or not you’ll be filing (or expecting) a claim, you also might’ve let your insurer know that you were in an accident.

But if the other driver in the accident went straight to your company, your insurance provider will contact you and let you know the next steps. They won’t pay a settlement until after you’ve given your side of the story and they’ve done their own due diligence.

If you find you’re in a situation where someone’s filed a claim against you:

1
Gather Information

Try to recall any incidents that might have led to the claim. Even if nothing comes to mind, document any relevant details or communications you receive.

2
Avoid Direct Negotiations

Should the claimant or their insurer reach out to you, direct them to your insurance company. It's crucial not to make any admissions or promises without your insurer's guidance.

3
Seek Legal Counsel

If the claim's nature seems severe or if you suspect it might be unfounded, consider consulting an attorney to understand your rights and potential defenses.

4
Cooperate Fully

Your insurance company will investigate the claim. They might need your statement or other information. Always be honest and assist as needed.

5
Review Your Insurance Policy

Understand your coverage limits and terms. This will give you insight into what's covered and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

6
Prepare Mentally

The claim might be resolved quickly, or it could take time. Stay informed, and be prepared for various outcomes, including settlements or potential legal actions.

There are two possible outcomes — either you or the other driver are found at fault for the accident.

What if You Were Found at Fault?

How the car insurance claim payout will work depends on your insurance coverage. Liability insurance will only pay up to your policy limits, leaving you to pay for the excess amount. Similarly, your full coverage insurance will pay up to your policy limits. But with better coverage, you have a wider safety net.

In a no-fault state, regardless of fault, your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage will handle your medical expenses and potentially some of your lost wages up to the limits of your policy. Even if you caused the accident, your own insurance will cover your immediate medical needs.

The no-fault system primarily applies to personal injuries. Property damage claims, such as those for vehicle repairs, are typically based on fault. Being at fault means you're responsible for damages to the other party's vehicle or property. Your liability insurance will cover these costs up to your policy's limit. If damages exceed your coverage limit, you could be personally liable for the difference.

HOW DOES A CLAIM AFFECT MY INSURANCE?

Your insurance premiums may increase after filing a claim, especially if you're at fault. This is because the insurance company might perceive you as a higher risk.

If a third-party claim is filed against you and your insurer has to pay out, this can also lead to an increase in your premiums if you're deemed at fault.

Some insurance companies offer "claims-free" or "good driver" discounts. Filing a claim might make you ineligible for these discounts, leading to higher premiums.

What Happens if Someone Filed a False Insurance Claim Against You?

If someone files a false insurance claim against you — you can provide evidence to dispute it.

1
Gather Evidence

Collect evidence supporting your side, such as photos, videos, witness statements or police reports. Submit everything you’ve gathered to your insurance provider.

2
Stay Cooperative

Work closely with your insurance adjuster and provide any information requested.

3
Consider Legal Counsel

If the claim escalates, consult with an attorney to protect your rights. If the insurance company denies your dispute, you may need to hire an attorney.

4
Don’t Admit Fault

Even if you think you caused the accident, you don't have to admit fault or sign any claim-related documents.

5
Document Everything

Keep records of all communications related to the claim for reference.

Let your insurance provider and the authorities know if you think you might be involved in a fraudulent claim. Provide evidence that clearly shows that you could not have been involved in the alleged accident. Getting a lawyer involved can help you collect damages if you are ultimately found to be the victim of fraud.

How Do You Find Out if Someone Filed an Insurance Claim?

If you suspect someone might have filed a claim against your policy, the most straightforward approach is to contact your insurance provider directly. They can inform you of any recent claims made against your policy.

Insurance companies typically send out notifications when a claim is filed. Regularly check your mail and email (including spam or junk folders) for any correspondence from your insurance company. If you have an online account with your insurance provider, you can often log in to view recent claims and policy activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do car insurance companies check claims?
Can my insurance provider pay out a claim without me knowing?
Can I dispute a claim filed against me without me knowing?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.