Auto Insurance Claims: Avg. collision repair cost, rear quarter panel, fender bender

Question
I was at fault in a fender bender collision while driving a Zipcar and they
classified the accident as severe and major because my Zipcar sustained
$5500 damage and the victim vehicle received $2000 damage.  This was
literally a small time accident.  I turned wide and hit rear of parked car,
traveling less than 10 mph.  No injuries.  No other property damage.

My question is, what is average repair cost in CA now days?  I can't believe a
broken tail light, dented bumper and scratched rear quarter panel cost $2K.  
The Zipcar had broken headlight, dented hood, bumper and front panel for
$5K.  Would a reasonable person consider this to be a major, severe, accident
based on cost alone?

Answer
Hi Steve,

There is no average cost of body work. The cost is in direct relation to the extent of the damage. It is not uncommon for collision repairs to fall between $2,000.00 and $10,000.00. With labot rates at more than $40.00 per hour, parts cost, paint cost, etc. the costs can be quite high.

I'm not sure hwt you say "they" classified the damage as severe, who they are. The severity really makes no difference. If you were deem to be at fault, the affect on your policy premium is the same it the damage is $50.00 or $50,000.00.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh