QuestionI was backing out of a tight parking spot and hit the car next to me. The car had a very slight dent and some paint scratches. My car had a much bigger dent to a plastic front fender, but I think it can be popped back out without much problem. I thought I would just pay the damages out of pocket because I have $500 deductible. First question: should I be concerned about filing a claim and having a strike against me with my insurance company? Will the $500 deductible be applied twice (for my damage as well as the damage to the other car)? The damage was over a week ago now--is there a problem if I make a claim now? If I even ask my insurance company what they think I should do, will I get a strike against me on their "clue report?"
AnswerHi Charles,
This is a duplicate question that I answered a few minutes ago.
Bennie
Answer: Hi Charles,
You can call your AGENT (not the claims department) and get an 'off the record' opinion on how this will affect your premium if you make a full report of the accident. If you file the claim, there will only be one deductible, which applies to the collision on your car. There is never a deductible on personal auto insurance policies for property damage.
Any report to your company will cause this accident to be listed on your CLUE report.
If you report the accident so your company can handle the damage to the other car, they will want to inspect the damage to your car.
If the total damage to both cars exceeds the stated limits allowed by your state to be considered a 'chargeable' accident (usually $500 or $750), your company can raise your rate even if you pay for the damage to your car out of pocket. The rule is based on being at fault and the amount of damage, not who pays the claim.
I hope you find this information to be of help.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area
