When It May Be Best NOT to File an Automobile Insurance Claim
When It May Be Best NOT to File an Automobile Insurance Claim
Your neighbor Bob may tell you one thing.ย Cousin Jeff may tell you another. It seems everybody has an opinion. When should you file an insurance claim with your automobile insurance company and when should you just try to take care of the consequences on your own?
The discussion usually centers around the potential rate increases you could see in your automobile insurance if you file a claim. There’s much more to consider, however. So, when should you file a claim and when may it be best to NOT file an automobile insurance claim?
You put a small dent in a car owned by someone else.
It can be tempting to settle this type of claim privately. The problem is you don’t know who you may be dealing with and they may request more fundsย in the future. You should file a claim in this situation.
You cause an accident that involves injuries.
When injuries are involved in an incident you caused, it is critical you contact your insurance company. This could eventually involve significant medical bills and you want the support of your insurer.
You cause significant damage to another vehicle.
Because there may be more damage than initially thought, you should always let your insurance company know if you cause an accident with serious damage.
You cause serious accidental damage to your own car.
You may want consider whether or not to make a claim under this circumstance based on your deductible and on the possibility your rates could go up upon renewal. Of course, if you just have liability coverage, there will be no need to file a claim.
You cause minor damage to your own car.
If you only have liability coverage or if damage is less than your deductible amount, there is no need to file a claim with your insurance company. Even if damage is slightly more than your deductible, you may be better off handling the situation on your own.
In reality, there are few circumstances when you will not want to notify your insurance company of an incident. This is particularly true if injuries are involved.
Do you have sufficient automobile insurance for your situation? We can help. Contact our independent insurance agents and get a no-obligation insurance review and quote. You may just find improved coverage at a more affordable price. Get more for your money when you contact us for your automobile insurance needs.
Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder
Search All Blogs
Search All Blogs
Read More Blogs
Unveiling the Quirks and Curiosities of Geography: A Journey Through the Unconventional Landscape of the United States
From Detroit’s Northern Prominence to South America’s Surprising Proximity: Unveiling the Unconventional Geographic Facts of the United States
Safeguarding Your Business with Income Interruption Insurance
Business Interruption Insurance: A Shield Against Financial Disasters
A Gift That Keeps on Giving: The Enduring Benefits of Child Life Insurance
Child Life Insurance: A Timeless Gift of Love, Protection, and Financial Security
Demystifying No-Fault Insurance
Unraveling the No-Fault Insurance Enigma: A Comprehensive Guide to Navigating the Auto Insurance Landscape
Navigating the Deductible Dilemma Maze
Insurance Deductibles: A Delicate Dance Between Financial Security and Premium Savings
Evolving Entertainment: A Journey Through the History of In-Car Entertainment
In-Car Entertainment: A Chronicle of Technological Advancements and Changing Driving Experiences
Debunking Insurance Myths: Unveiling the Realities Behind the Industry
Insurance Unveiled: Separating Fact from Fiction in the World of Protection
From First Crash to Compulsory Coverage: A Journey Through the History of Auto Insurance
Auto Insurance: A Tale of Accidents, Legislation, and Financial Protection
Insuring the Unexpected: A Glimpse into the World of Bizarre Insurance Policies
From Million-Dollar Legs to Kidnap Insurance: Unveiling the Quirky World of Unusual Policies
Navigating the Maze of Auto Insurance: Understanding the Coverage You Need
Auto Insurance Explained: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Yourself and Your Car