What is the primary duty of the insured after an accident or loss?

The primary duty of the insured after an accident or loss is to promptly report all accidents to the insurer. This duty is vital because the insurance company needs to be informed of the incident as soon as possible to start the claims process. Timely reporting helps the insurer assess the situation, evaluate the claim, and determine coverage under the policy. It also allows the insurer to take necessary steps to investigate the incident and gather pertinent information that may affect the claim.

In contrast, submitting a claim to the police is not universally required or applicable, as not all accidents necessitate police reports; it may depend on the nature of the incident. While negotiating with the other party might be part of resolving claims, it is not considered a primary responsibility of the insured. Similarly, repairing the vehicle immediately can lead to complications, as the insurer may want to assess the damage before any repairs are made to ensure proper documentation and evaluation for the claim. Prompt reporting to the insurer remains the critical first step after an accident or loss.