Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

Do I need a police report to file a claim with insurance if I damaged my own vehicle?

I went mudding in a field on my property and the car spun out of control and hit a tree. Do I need a police report to file a claim with insurance?

Aug 13, 2024 Hillsboro, OH

Answer
Author profile picture
Kristine Lee
Insurance Data Insights Analyst

Kristine joined The Zebra in 2019 as an in-house content researcher and writer, with a property and casualty insurance license. Before joining The Ze…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • 6+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

You do not need a police report to open a claim. Since it was a single-vehicle accident, you will be charged as at-fault if the claim is paid, which would result in a higher premium. I would get an estimate for the damage and see if it's worth filing a claim for, and possibly pay out-of-pocket to avoid a rate hike.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

If my car was damaged in a car wash, who pays for the repair?

The answer to your question will depend completely on the specifics of how the damage occurred. The gas station will pay for the damage if: If your vehicle was not moving and the brushes or moving parts of the car wash damaged your vehicle then the liability would be on the owner of the wash. …
Jul 28, 2021 Bloomington, MN

Should I file a claim for raccoon damage?

If you hit a raccoon, that would be considered a comprehensive claim. Your deductible would apply. You need to get an estimate for the cost to repair the damage. Once you have that you can decide if it is worth filing a claim considering your deductible. You also want to consider your claims histor…
Aug 8, 2025 Eugene, OR

Will insurance cover a leak in my car's sunroof?

Insurance will only cover things that are a result of a loss. So if the leak in the sunroof was caused by a covered peril — like damage from bad weather — this would count towards a comprehensive claim. If the leak was caused by wear-and-tear, your insurance will not cover it.While your first compr…
Aug 8, 2025 Oviedo, FL

How do I handle an accident where the person I hit is claiming more damage than what was actually caused?

If you are filing a claim with your insurance company then the simplest solution is to provide them with pictures of the damage from the accident scene. They will investigate the accident and pay for any damage for which you are liable. Whether or not they cover the damaged tail light will not make…
Aug 13, 2024 Kent, WA