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When There Is Only Minor Damage and No Injuries

• Severe damage or injuries can make the auto insurance claim process a complicated one. But if no one is hurt and the damage to your car isn’t severe, your options are pretty straightforward.
• If it’s the other driver’s fault – When your losses are covered by the other driver’s liability policy, you don’t pay a deductible. So even when damage is minor, file a claim under that driver’s liability insurance.
• If it’s your fault – If you can live with the minor damage, or if the cost of fixing it will be not much more than your deductible, consider not filing a claim. The small reimbursement after your deductible may amount to less than your future increases in insurance rates.

Key Things to Know About Car Insurance Claims

• When to file a claim depends on the extent and cause of the injuries or physical damage.
• Which insurance company to file a claim with depends on who or what caused the damage.
• To file a claim, call the insurance company and provide them with your information and any documentation related to the accident.
• Car insurance claims raise premiums by an average of 12% to 45%, depending on the circumstances and insurance company.