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

What happens if someone makes a false car insurance claim against me?

I was in a car accident in a parking lot. Someone backed into my car while it was parked. I got their insurance information -- they admitted fault. I later got a call from their insurance company claiming I had hit them. This is ridiculous because my car was parked and it's clear they backed into me. 

What do I do?

Sep 25, 2019 Madison, WI

Answer
Author profile picture

Ava Lynch

Insurance Analyst

Ava joined The Zebra as a writer and licensed insurance agent in 2016. She now works as a senior insurance contributor, providing insights and data a…

Credentials
  • 7+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

Thank you for your question. After an accident, I recommend taking pictures and recording as much information as possible. If the fault is difficult to determine, call 911 and file a police report. If you have any of this information currently, it can be helpful.

At this point, I recommend contacting your insurance company immediately. Give them all the important information -- pictures of the damage, the other driver's name, phone number, and the insurance company. They will negotiate on your behalf and investigate the claim. In this situation, the claims adjuster should be able to determine fault quite easily by looking at the damage on both vehicles.

Below are some articles you might find helpful. 

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.

Icon Fill Form

Step 3: Compare your quotes

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

Icon Agent

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!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

Will my auto insurance cover damage to a fifth-wheel camper, or should I use my RV insurance?

I'm so sorry to hear about your accident!  The best thing to do would be to contact your RV insurance claims department to see how they want to handle the claim. How this claim pays out will be dependent on the details of the accident. They can refer you to your auto insurance claims departmen…
Jul 21, 2022 Leakesville, MS

Is it considered an at-fault accident if I hit a tree?

This is considered a single-vehicle accident which is considered at-fault. Unfortunately, in this instance, insurance companies would prefer that you not swerve to avoid a collision. Sadly, this can sometimes mean hitting the animal. If you hit the animal it would be considered a comprehensive clai…
Jul 14, 2019 Coos Bay, OR

Do I have to file a claim with my insurance even when I'm not at fault?

I would not recommend speaking with your insurance company unless the other driver refuses to pay for the damages. Because you have the police report and hopefully the other driver's insurance information, you should call their insurance company and begin the claims process. If you do not have…
Mar 12, 2018 Wallkill, New York

How does my insurance company handle a claim if I hit a car that was already damaged?

After any sort of collision, it's always recommended that you take pictures at the scene. Pictures should be taken of both vehicles, the location of the crash, and the other driver's info and license plate. When your insurance company investigates the crash and assesses the damage on the …
Jul 6, 2017 Upper Marlboro, MD