Auto Insurance Claims: Parking Garage Hit and Run, honda minivan, parking lot attendant

Question
I returned to my Honda minivan in a parking garage to find that someone had hit my left rear bumper.  There is a large dent (six inches in diameter) and they hit it right on the parking sensor.  The damage also includes the bumper /side panel being slightly separated from the body of the car.  Of course, I don't think that anyone witnessed the accident.  I told the parking lot attendant and he told me to call a number to file a report.  This accident happened last night.  When I called the number, the representative was surprised that the attendant had not taken the report himself or taken a picture of the damage.  Anyway, I'm not sure if that has any signifigance or bearing, but now my question is what to do with the insurance company.  My husband is telling me that it will only mean that our rates go up.  I want the damage repaired - I know it's going to be expensive b/c the whole rear bumper and the parking sensors will have to be replaced.  Are we better off driving this dented car or filing a claim??? My van is only two years old - and two years ago when I got it, a woman rear ended me and I had to have the bumper replaced then.  It was completely her fault and her insurance paid for it then.  But now?  Thanks for your help!

Answer
Hi Joanna,

You should make a claim with the insurance company for the parking garage. I'm not sure if they will be liable or not but you can make the claim and see. Other wise you should get a repair estimate from a body shop. Then you can decide (in light of your deductible) if it will be worth while making a claim on your insurance. Making the claim will likely increase your rates.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh