How to File a Car Accident Claim A car accident can be stressful. It is important to know the steps to follow in case you decide to file a claim, regardless of whether or not it was your responsibility. One of the first things you need to do is call the police to report the accident. A police report can help your insurance company determine who was at fault. 1. Contact the Police If you're involved in a car accident, it's important to call the police as soon as you can. This will let you gather crucial information, including witness statement