Do You Really Have to Tell Your Insurance Company After a Car Accident in New Jersey?
Posted on: August 5, 2025
You Got Hit. You Walked Away. You Didn’t Call Your Insurance Company. Big Mistake.
Here’s how it plays out every day in New Jersey:
You’re driving. Out of nowhere- BAM. Someone rear-ends you at a red light. You feel a jolt. You’re a little shaken, but your car still runs. You exchange info and tell yourself, Its no big deal. Ill deal with it later.
Then your neck locks up two days later. The other driver claims you were at fault. And your insurance company says, Sorry, we cant help. You didn’t report it.
In New Jersey, that simple mistake can cost you:
- Your insurance coverage
- Thousands in repair and medical bills
- Legal protection if the other driver sues
Let’s break down why you must notify your insurer even after the smallest crash.
YES: You Are Required to Report Any Car Accident to Your Insurance in New Jersey
Even if it’s minor. Even if no one seems hurt. Even if you don’t plan to file a claim.
Why?
Because New Jersey insurance policies and the law say you have to. And because car accidents have a sneaky way of becoming serious after the fact.
What Happens If You Don’t Report a Crash?
- Your medical claim could be denied.
- Your insurer might cancel or not renew your policy.
- If the other driver sues you, your insurer may say, “You’re on your own.”
Not reporting a crash is like throwing away your parachute after a jump. You might not need it, but if you do, it’s too late.
Injuries Don’t Always Show Up Right Away
Some of the most common and costly injuries take days to appear:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Internal bleeding
- Back, shoulder, and neck trauma
By the time you realize you’re hurt, it might be too late to file a claim unless you reported the crash right away.
What the Law and Your Policy Actually Say
Most NJ insurance policies require:
- Reporting any accident within 24-72 hours, even if you’re not filing a claim.
New Jersey law requires:
- Accidents involving injury, death, or $500+ in damage to be reported to police within 10 days.
- This is under NJ Statute 39:4-130.
If the law says it’s serious, your insurer will expect you to act like it is, too.
But I Don’t Want to File a Claim
That’s fine. You can still say:
- “I’m reporting this for the record only. I don’t need to file a claim yet.”
This protects you if:
- You later develop an injury
- Repairs cost more than expected
- The other driver files a claim or lawsuit
What About Minor Accidents?
Let’s be clear: There’s no such thing as a harmless crash.
- Bumpers hide frame damage.
- Back pain creeps in slowly.
- Fender benders turn into legal battles all the time.
- Even a 5 MPH collision can cost thousands once mechanics and doctors get involved.
What You Should Do Right After a Crash in NJ
- Check for injuries. Call 911 if needed.
- Take photos and collect insurance info.
- Call your insurance company right away.
- Say you’re reporting the crash, even if you’re not filing a claim.
- Follow up and document everything.
Final Word: Reporting = Protection
If you don’t report the crash, you’re gambling with your health, your money, and your legal rights.
In New Jersey, you’re not just encouraged to report a car accident, you are expected to. It’s the smart move. It’s the legal move. And it’s your first step toward peace of mind.
More Help for NJ Drivers
Filing a Claim NJ Department of Banking & Insurance:
Call Ellis Law at 732-308-0200 or contact us online to learn more and schedule a free consultation. Located in Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.
