Liability claims claims guide

The injured person's name, contact information, and a description of what happened

Photos of the location where the injury occurred — before any changes are made

Names and contact information of any witnesses

Any medical attention the injured person received — but do not pay medical bills directly

Your policy declarations page showing your liability limit and medical payments coverage

Any written communication from the injured party or their attorney — forward to your insurer immediately

Whether the injury occurred on your property and whether you were legally liable

Medical payments coverage — this pays regardless of fault, up to a small limit (typically $1,000–$5,000)

Whether the claim exceeds your liability limit — this is where umbrella coverage matters

Any statements you made at the scene — these can be used against you

Admitting fault or apologizing at the scene — this can be used as an admission of liability

Paying medical bills directly out of pocket — this can be interpreted as an admission of liability

Not reporting the incident to your insurer promptly — even if you think it won't become a claim

Not having adequate liability limits — standard policies carry $100,000–$300,000. A serious injury can exceed this quickly.