Auto Insurance Claims: parking lot scratch, car scratches, company asap


Question
Parking is a nightmare at my work and today I squeezed into a tight spot where there was an SUV parked to my right that was backed into the spot and hanging a smidge into my spot.  As I was leaving work, the driver of that parked car was waiting for me and said that I scratched her front right bumper with my front right bumper.  There is an existing scratch on my right bumper, but I couldn't tell if there was any new damage and it appears the scratch on her bumper could have been caused by my bumper, but I didn't measure the scratch heights.

There are no witnesses and I didn't feel or hear anything when I parked (I had my radio off, but windows closed).  Since the other car owner can't definitely prove that I scratched her car (I guess, unless a professional examines both car scratches), would my insurance company still find me completely at fault if I file a claim?  We exchanged information, but I'd like to notify my insurance company ASAP unless it would just be cheaper for us both if I paid her directly to have her scratch repaired.  

I'd just hate to be the victim of her trying to find someone to pay for her existing scratch.  She did choose to park a large car backed into a compact spot.  She could have blamed the scratches on anyone that chose to park next to her.

Answer
Hi Jerbie,

By your own admission, you had to squeeze into the parking space. It is possible that you did it without realizing. If a claim is made on your insurance it may cause your rates to increase for the next 3 years. You should ask the person to get an estimate to repair the damage. If the amount seems reasonable and you can afford it, you may be better off to just pay for it out of pocket. If not then file the claim.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh