Anonymous wrote:I have never had to make a claim on my car insurance before. DH was backing in to an underground garage space and got a dent in the quarter panel of our car. So far the lowest, least labor intensive repair is $600, but I’m sure if we got it done right it will be closer to $1000.

Should we self-pay, or is this what insurance is for?

You're not really looking at it the right way. Since t he insurance will force you to pay the deductible before paying anything, don't think of the $1,000 bill as a thousand but think of it as $500 since you're paying the first 500 regardless. Is it worth it to you to ensure your car insurance rate doesn't go up for the next few years to save $500? Me personally? I would pay it out of pocket and not involve insurance. It doesn't seem like it would be worth it.

Go for it!

Get a few estimates, then offer CASH payment. You will bring the $1000 down.

Just pay it.

I wouldn't involve insurance for anything below $1.5k

Self pay, insurance will do it as cheaply as possible and may raise your rates

OP here. Current deductible is $500

I have never had to make a claim on my car insurance before. DH was backing in to an underground garage space and got a dent in the quarter panel of our car. So far the lowest, least labor intensive repair is $600, but I’m sure if we got it done right it will be closer to $1000.

Should we self-pay, or is this what insurance is for?