Auto Insurance Claims: To file a claim or not?, hypothetical question, snow bank


Question
My 19 year old son skidded and crashed on ice 6 weeks ago, we only had 3rd party for that car, so the Insurance company paid the towing and the bill to Comcast for the power line that he broke.
This past week, he skidded again on ice, ran into a snow bank, caused $1,350 damage to our new car. No police report has been made. We have a $500 deductable.
My husband and I have a good driving record, one claim from me.
We have 3 teenagers on out policy. Now my question is, do you think we should try and fix this ourselves although it will be a bit tough financially, or make a claim for the $850. I did the hypothetical question to the ins. company and they could not tell me how much our rates would go up.   Really not sure what to do. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Denise,

You should absolutely pay this yourself. Do not make a claim. Since this would be considered to be your sons 2nd at-fault accident, your rates will likely go up 40% or more or they may even drop you altogether.

Just pay for the repairs yourself and stop letting your son drive when road conditions consist of snow and/or ice. He obviously does not have the experience to dive in those conditions. Next time he could be hurt or hurt someone else. That would also hold true for the other to teenagers as well. Good luck.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh