Auto Insurance Claims: car estimate, insurance premiums, car estimate

Question
So I got into an accident during a blizzard. I was in a parking lot and i was reversing I did not see anything, but the blowing snow. A couple seconds later I feel a nudge on my van. I pulled over to the side and notice a small dent on the driver door. nothing big about 1/3 of a pointing finger radius. So i talked to the guy saying i will pay cash for the damage and repair. Then i get a call a week later saying that the damage and repair is $400-$500. I think thast a little too high. From what i was told that they remove the door remove the dent and then repaint and then put the door back on thats it. Does it really cost $400-$500?? Im think it only costs a minimum of $200, 350-400 max. Also there is no damage on my vehicle. I am a new driver about 2-3 months new. The person isn't going to report as I am going to pay cash.

Any one know the estimate for a small dent on a driver door?

Answer
Hi John-

I am not sure what State you are in, but that sounds like a very low estimate for any type of body damage to me.  If you don't accept it and he turns it in to his insurance company you will pay at least 3 times that in increased insurance premiums over the next 3 years.

I hope that helps.  

Sheldon Maughan
Sacramento, Ca