There are two types of reports to make after an accident: reporting to your insurer and reporting to the police. Different insurers have different reporting requirements, but typically, your insurance company will require that you report an accident within 24 to 48 hours of the accident. Failure to do so can result in serious consequences depending on your insurance policy. They may even cancel coverage. In Washington state, if there are no significant injuries and property damage is under $1,000, you do not have to file a police report. If the accident meets the requirements for reporting, you have 4 days to submit your report. Even if the accident does not meet the requirements for reporting, it may still be wise to do so, especially if you were not at fault because car accident injuries can take a few days to be fully felt. An accident report is an important part of establishing the facts of your case.