Auto Insurance Claims: Minor at-fault accident, auto insurance claim, nissan altima

Question
QUESTION: I own my car free and clear (2000 Nissan Altima). Yesterday, I rear-ended someone at a stop sign at about 5 mph. His vehicle's bumper sustained very minor damage -- a dent roughly 2 inches in diameter. The front of my car's hood is bent down (unopenable) and is slightly bowed in the middle. I gave him my insurance info, and he reported it.

My claim is now in the process of figuring out the "repair details." I've yet to hear from my claims rep.

My question: Is it in my best interest to report the damage to my own vehicle? Even if it's above the deductible, I don't really care to fix it -- I believe I can "manually" fix the hood enough to make it openable again.

How should I proceed?

Thanks!

ANSWER: Hello Jake,

Well, it depends. Are they going to pay your damages and there is no way that you are at fault? If this is the case, reporting the claim can raise your premium.

If however, you are being accused of something or the insurance company is dragging their feet to pay you, then you might want to have the coverage of your own insurance company.

They will make sure they pay you.

Sounds like you are in a situation were the damage is minimal and the other insurance company will pay you, and liability is clear. If this is the case, it is a good idea to simply deal with the insurance company of the person that hit you. If they give you the run around, file with your own carrier.

For a longer discussion on when you should and should not file, visit:

http://www.auto-insurance-claim-advice.com/when-not-to-file-an-auto-insurance.ht


Good Luck,
Anne

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Anne -- I'm sorry if I wasn't clear before. I rear-ended the other car, so I'm sure I'm at fault (although there is no police report).

My insurance will be covering the minor damage to the other guy's bumper; I'm just wondering if I have to report the minor damage to my OWN vehicle's hood. Or, should I expect them to send the claims rep to inspect my vehicle regardless?

Thanks again!

-- Jake

Answer
Okay, I am sorry. In this situation, your claim is already reported. Your insurance company will have to pay the guy in front; such payment is not subject to deductible. The damages to your car will be paid subject to the terms and conditions of your policy.

If the damages to your hood are above your deductible, they will pay and if they are not, then they will not. The question is, will the payment increase your premium? Probably not, and if it does, it will be minor.

The accident is already reported and the insurance company knows that you are a higher risk driver. They will use that information regardless of whether they pay your claim or not. The payment of the claim is going to go on your record, but should make little or no impact on your premium. This is assuming that you have a clean record and there are not many claims against your policy.

I hope I was able to answer your claim this time around.

Good Luck,
Anne.