Is It Worth Filing a Claim if There Were No Injuries?

Car accidents can happen at a moment's notice, and when no one is injured, it might seem more like an inconvenience instead of a serious situation.

Many drivers just assume that because car accident victims didn't get injured, the only thing to worry about is property damage --- so is it worth filing a claim if there were no injuries?

It can be, because if you have to pay out of pocket, it could definitely cost you, and don't forget, even if there are no injuries at the time of the crash, that doesn't mean serious injuries can't develop. You don't want to be stuck with medical bills that could have been covered by a car accident claim.

Tom Fowler Law is a firm in Des Moines that works with people all the time who wonder if it's worth it to file a claim. We can consult on questions like Is it worth hiring a lawyer after a minor car accident? Let's break it down and find out more about the best way to protect yourself if you get into a car accident without injuries.

Understanding What Filing a Car Accident Claim Really Means

Filing a car insurance claim means that you officially notify your insurance company that you have been in an accident. It also means that you are requesting an insurance payout to cover property damage, like car repairs. If you have physical injuries, you would also ask for the insurance coverage to pay for medical costs.

Drivers often hesitate before filing a claim when there are no injuries because they want to avoid having to pay higher premiums, or they believe that the damage is minor and they can pay repair bills out of pocket.

However, not making a claim can sometimes cause more harm than good, especially if the damage ends up being more than expected or if the other party later decides to file their own claim. For more information, a motor vehicle accident law firm in Des Moines may be able to help.

Iowa Law on Reporting and Insurance Claims

Many people don't realize that it could be illegal to not report an accident to law enforcement, and it could cause you to lose your insurance. If someone is injured, killed, or if property damage is higher than $1,500, you are required to report the accident.

However, even if the accident doesn't meet these requirements, it is still a good idea to notify the insurance company. Even if the accident wasn't serious, you still need to go through the claims process in many cases, or you will be violating the terms of your policy.

The Benefits of Filing a Claim with Your Insurance Company — Even Without Physical Injuries

Many drivers don't realize the benefits of reporting and filing a claim following an accident. Even if no one is physically hurt, there are several good reasons to get the at fault driver's insurance company involved.

1. Hidden Damage Isn’t Always Obvious

Following a low-speed collision, damage might seem cosmetic. It might be a dented bumper or a cracked headlight. However, modern vehicles have sensors, cameras, and electronics that can easily be damaged and expensive to repair.

When you file a claim, it ensures that your car is property inspected and repaired.

2. Protects Against Future Disputes

There is also the possibility that you and the other driver decide not to get the police or insurance company involved, but in a twist, the other person does file a claim. Now, it's your word against their word and there is no documentation to back either of you up.

3. Preserves Legal Rights

Also consider the fact that if an accident seems minor, injuries might develop later. Things like soft tissue damage, back strain, or whiplash may not appear for days following the accident. Filing a claim ensures the insurance cannot later deny your coverage.

Why Some Drivers Avoid Filing a Claim

Despite the benefits, many Iowa drivers are still hesitating before contacting their insurance company following a minor accident. Here are some of the most common reasons:

• Fear of premium increases

• Desire to avoid paperwork or hassle

• Belief that damage is too small to justify it

• Agreement with the other driver to “handle it privately”

• Confidence that no one was injured and everything is fine

While this is all understandable, they can lead to bigger problems. If the damage ends up being more costly than expected, or the other party later changes their story, not having filed a claim leaves the driver unprotected.

The Risks of Handling a Minor Accident Privately

It can be very tempting to settle a minor accident just between you and the other driver. This is especially the case when both parties agree it's not worth it. However, there are significant risks:

1. Unforeseen Vehicle Damage

What seems like a $200 scratch could quickly turn into a $2,000 repair once a mechanic removes the bumper. If you haven't filed a claim, any of those hidden damages will be all on you to pay for.

2. Delayed Medical Symptoms

Even if no one feels injured at the scene, aches, stiffness, or headaches can appear later. Without a claim or police report, it’s nearly impossible to connect those symptoms to the accident for insurance purposes.

3. Other Driver Files a Late Claim

The other driver could file a claim days later, alleging greater damage or injury. Without a prior report, the insurance company may question the driver’s credibility and refuse coverage.

4. Violation of Policy Terms

Most insurance contracts require prompt reporting of any accident, regardless of severity. Failing to report could void coverage entirely, even for future claims.

When Filing a Claim Might Not Be Necessary

There are limited cases where not filing a claim might make sense:

• The accident only involved the driver’s own vehicle.

• The damage is minimal and under the deductible.

• No other property or vehicles were involved.

• The repair cost is truly less than the potential rate increase.

For example, if a driver backs into a fence and the repair estimate is $400, but the deductible is $500, filing a claim wouldn’t make financial sense.

However, drivers should always document the incident — taking photos, getting repair estimates, and keeping notes — even if they don’t file a claim right away.

How Tom Fowler Law Helps After a No-Injury Accident

Even when there are no injuries, drivers can benefit from consulting a car accident attorney. A lawyer can help determine whether to file an insurance claim, communicate with insurers, and ensure the driver isn’t unfairly blamed for the accident.

The team at Tom Fowler Law in Des Moines, Iowa understands how confusing insurance processes can be — particularly after minor accidents. They can also assist with questions such as Is it worth suing the other driver for property damage? They regularly assist clients by:

• Reviewing insurance policies to explain rights and obligations

• Assessing whether filing an insurance claim or personal injury claim is the best option

• Protecting clients from false or exaggerated claims and not fair market value claims

• Researching and gathering evidence like medical records

• Negotiating fair compensation for property damage

• Handling communication with insurers and opposing drivers

Even without injuries, insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts or shift blame. Having a legal advocate ensures the driver’s interests remain protected from start to finish, and the team works to get maximum compensation.

Even if you don't have physical pain following an injury, you should still seek medical attention and consider filing a claim. You should also consider legal help if you have to miss work (lost wages), if medical or therapy bills start piling up, or if your insurance company or the other driver's insurance company offers a low settlement, reach out. You have the right to seek compensation.