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Do you have to report every auto accident to your insurance company?

The sun blinded me while I was driving the other day, and I ran into my neighbor's fence when I thought I was turning into the driveway. There is damage to my car, but I only have liability coverage. Do I need to report this?

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Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“You don’t have to report every auto accident. However, your insurance carrier does want you to report any driving activity to them, even if it is something they won’t cover.
You should know that this type of accident will be deemed at fault, and it will cause your insurance premium to increase.
If you are looking to get the fence fixed and paid for by your carrier, then you will want to report a claim. The
property damage liability
on your policy will pay for it.
If your neighbor reports the claim to their homeowners insurance company, they will probably fix the fence. But then the insurer will get in touch with your carrier for reimbursement.
If you and your neighbor are on good terms, see if you can pay them directly for the fence repairs. This way, no one has to report anything and everyone’s premium will remain the same. “
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