To File a Claim or Not to File: That is the Question

Common wisdom (and often your insurance company) states that you must file a report with your insurance company after any accident, no matter how minor. But as our Auto Body Repair Denver experts can tell you, sometimes filing a claim will have you paying more in the long run due to increased insurance premiums post-accident. So when is it not a good idea to get your insurance company involved? Accurate Auto body collision repair service is here to give you some on advice to consider when deciding on filing an insurance claim or not.

When Not to File a Claim

• One-Vehicle Accident: If you are the only vehicle involved in the accident, you haven’t damaged any property, and you can afford your own damages/medical expenses, it is advisable to pay for them out of pocket rather than have an accident on your record. Although it might cost less in the short run to file a claim, the increase in your monthly premium from filing an insurance claim will quickly add up.

• Damage is Less than Deductible: If the damages sustained by your vehicle are close to or slightly higher than your deductible, it makes no sense reporting the accident because you will end up paying for most of the repair and your rates will increase. Pay for it yourself and take solace in the fact that your bills will not go up each month.

• Little to No Damage Done: If you just tap someone’s bumper and no physical damage exists, there is no sense in filing an insurance claim. However, if any damage is done, you are legally required to exchange personal details with the other persons involved.

When to File a Claim

If there is extensive damage to your vehicle or anyone else’s involved in the accident, obtaining a police report and filing an insurance claim is a no-brainer. It is often difficult to determine liability in a major accident and it is better to have the insurance companies work it out rather than arguing your way through it. Additionally, most insurance companies have a time limit during which you must file a claim or the insurance company will not cover it.

If you have been in a sever motor vehicle accident and have sustained bodily injury, getting an attorney on your side is also a good idea. They will help you defend your case so you can get a good settlement for the damages caused.

Bottom Line

It is always a good idea is to go get a car damage estimate on your own before reporting the claim so you have an idea of how much you will need to pay and can estimate the pros/cons of reporting or not reporting. Just be sure to do it in the time frame specified by your insurance company. And remember to never admit fault at the scene of the accident.

How to use this information

Whether you are looking for an estimate or for repair paid for by your insurance company or out of pocket, Accurate Auto Body will help you find the right solution.  If have been an accident and are in need of auto repair, be sure to give Accurate Auto Body a call at 303-344-2122 or contact us through our website for more information and we will be happy help!

How has your experience been when filing an insurance claim for accidents with minor damage?