Auto Insurance in Costa Mesa CA
Accidents happen, and when they do, navigating the decision to file an auto insurance claim can be tricky. It’s essential to understand when it’s best to involve your insurer and when it might be wiser to handle things privately.
When Should I File a Claim?
Consider filing an auto insurance claim in the following types of situations:
- Involving others—If your accident involves another vehicle, passengers or pedestrians, you should typically file a claim. Even minor damage can lead to costly medical bills or legal issues.
- Unclear fault—When fault is unclear, you should consider filing a claim. Your insurer can investigate and determine liability. Protect yourself from potential lawsuits by involving them.
- Significant damage—If your car sustains significant damage or is a total loss, you should consider filing a claim. Repair costs can quickly exceed your deductible, making insurance coverage crucial.
When Should I Avoid Filing an Auto Insurance Claim?
The following are some situations when you may want to avoid filing an auto insurance claim:
- Minor self-accidents—If you accidentally cause minor damage to your own car (like a small dent or scratch) and have no collision coverage, there’s no need to contact your insurer. Similarly, if the repair costs are less than your collision deductible, it’s often better to handle it privately.
- No injuries or significant damage—When there are no injuries or significant damage involved, consider skipping the claim. Filing for a small dent or scratch that costs less than your deductible might lead to a higher premium or loss of your no-claims bonus.
- Policyholder’s negligence—When the accident results from your own negligence (e.g., backing into a pole), evaluate whether it’s worth filing a claim. Sometimes, it’s better to cover minor repairs out of pocket.
How to Review Your Auto Insurance Policy
Contact Trilogy Insurance Brokers, Inc. today to review your auto insurance policy. We can help make recommendations for how to handle auto-related incidents.