Will we be sorry if we file a claim?

[Anonymous]

We had a tire blowout that resulted in some body damage. Our estimate was $1000, and our deductible is $500. Since it wasn’t a collision, we are considering filing a claim. But we will pay out of pocket if the negative consequences outweigh the benefits of doing so. Thoughts?

[Anonymous]

I have filed a few claims for random things. I think you start to get in trouble when you are filing multiple claims a year for things like dents and scrapes. Save it for big stuff. I'd say anything over a few hundred dollars is worth a claim.

This is why you have insurance.

[Anonymous]

Check and see if you have accident forgiveness, this would probably qualify

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Check and see if you have accident forgiveness, this would probably qualify

We don’t, but my DH just told me our deductible is only $250.

[Anonymous]

Just claim it. If they raise your rates for something like this, start shopping.

[Anonymous]

I would not bother.

[Anonymous]

I filed 3 minor claims within 18 months with Geico. 2 were my fault, one was a hit and run while my car was parked. My account still lists me as having a good driver discount (prior to these I hadn’t had a claim in 10+ years).

The 6 month period after the third claim, my rates went up by $30. They went back to my old rate the next 6 month period, and then dropped even lower the one after that. So, filing 3 claims saved me several thousand dollars and did pretty much nothing to my rates.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I filed 3 minor claims within 18 months with Geico. 2 were my fault, one was a hit and run while my car was parked. My account still lists me as having a good driver discount (prior to these I hadn’t had a claim in 10+ years).

The 6 month period after the third claim, my rates went up by $30. They went back to my old rate the next 6 month period, and then dropped even lower the one after that. So, filing 3 claims saved me several thousand dollars and did pretty much nothing to my rates.

This is good to know. Thank you!

[Anonymous]

What makes you think this won't be covered under the collision part of your insurance? Last I heard, if the vehicle is in motion, then it's not a comprehensive claim. Thus a collision claim. If a collision claim then you will be charged for it as an accident.

[Anonymous]

I wouldn’t file it. My colleague had his coverage dropped after second claim, and had to shop around. They all ask if you made X claims in last 7 years, so now he pays 3x as much for worse coverage.

[Anonymous]

I would not file either.

[Anonymous]

When you go to the body shop, tell them you'll be paying cash (credit card) not submitting to insurance. They'll give you a better deal since they dont' have to deal with all the paperwork then.

[Anonymous]

Who is your insurance company?

[Anonymous]

I wouldn’t. Another real accident and you will be dropped.

[Anonymous]

How bad is the body damage? I wouldn't even repair it.