Auto Insurance Claims: Insurance coverage, concrete pole, insurance coverage

Question
Do I have to make a claim if I hit a concrete pole,while turning around? I was entering a residential trailer park area. Will my insurance go up? I  have full coverage in MI.

Answer
Hi Sarah,

If you damaged the pole, then you are responsible for the damage. You can either pay the cost of the damage your self or file a claim on your insurance to pay for it. As for the damage to your car, again, you can either leave the damage unrepaired, pay for the damage your self or file a claim on your insurance to pay for the damage. If you file a claim either to pay for the damage to the pole or to your car it will be considered an at-fault event which can cause your premiums to go up. The amount that you premium would go up, if any, would depend on the guidelines of your insurance company. If the premium would increase it could be anywhere from 15% to as much as 40%.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh