Car insurance question – need answer fast

[Joey_P]

@Doctor_Jackson

Yep, exactly. Which is why I pointed out that jtur’s answer was too simplistic. What should be reported and to whom varies greatly based on jurisdiction and circumstance. The only “standard” process is to call your insurance company. Most auto policies (we all read every page, right?) mandate that every accident, regardless of damage or circumstance, be reported to them. Impossible to enforce, but there nonetheless.

Taking a look at my policy it says

In the event of an accident, occurrence or loss, written
notice must be given to us or our agent as soon as
reasonably possible and within one year from the date
of the accident, occurrence or loss.

However, I can’t see why anyone would want to notify their insurance company of a fender bender if they’re not going to make a claim and, as you said, it’s pretty unenforceable.
Also, regarding seatbelts, my policy says

Liability:
Medical Payments - Auto if not wearing a seatbelt   $5,000 Each Person $19.00
Medical Payments - Auto if wearing a seatbelt         $10,000 Each Person Included

Medical Payments - Motorcycle if not wearing a helmet $5,000 Each Person $39.00
Medical Payments - Motorcycle if wearing a helmet       $10,000 Each Person Included

I’m curious, now that I look at it, as to why I have $10,000 worth of ‘included’ coverage for people wearing a seatbelt, but I pay an additional premium to get half the coverage on people not wearing one. Some poking around suggests that the I’m ‘paying’ for the no seatbelt option, that is, it’s just a standard line item on a, more or less, generic policy, and that I have something called ‘enhanced medical’ which includes bumping up medical coverage by 5k for anyone wearing a seatbelt, but I’m not totally sure on that.