Auto body repair & detailing: Large Scratched Area, minor scratch, rear tire

Question
What steps do I need to take concerning a large scratched area above the rear tire on the passenger side of my NEW 2006 Mustang? Backing out of my garage I came too close to a rock wall.

Answer
Hello Margie! Contact a local body shop, and have them do a damage estimate. Then, contact your insurance company, and see how much your insurance deductible is. If the damage far exceeds the deductible, file a claim. They know what to do. If it's less, or very close, I would just pay the claim. No sense risking higher insurance rates to save a couple hundred bucks, right? Don't try to fix this car yourself, it's too new, and too nice. For a few bucks, if it's a minor scratch, the body shop can try to buff and touch up the spot. They will do a nicer job that you ever possibly could. Bill