Auto insurance is specifically designed to help absorb the risk of driving, and to protect you from having to pay for everything out of pocket if a major car repair is necessary. In some cases, it’s more than obvious you’ll need to file an insurance claim. But when you make that decision, your monthly premium is going to be higher. If your car experiences major damage, you may be wondering if you should pay on your own for the car maintenance and repair or submit a claim.
There is no black and white answer to this question because, honestly, there are a lot of things you need to take into consideration before you make a final decision. In this article, we’ll do our best to help you with the choice by presenting the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Things to Consider
When you’re involved in a car accident and your car is damaged, it’s best to consider some things before instantly filing an insurance claim. Why? Because every situation is different, and you don’t need to immediately decide whether to pay out of pocket or submit a claim.
When to File an Insurance Claim
If the car accident involves other vehicles or other people, it is always wise to file a claim. Even if there is minimal damage or everyone seems unhurt, it is best to notify your insurance. Here’s why… When an accident first occurs, you simply don’t have all the facts about the damage in that moment. So, while it may not look bad at first glance, there could be a hidden car problem that shows up over time. Or, maybe you feel fine because of the rush of adrenaline, but develop a stiff neck later.
When to Pay Out of Pocket
If you experience minor damage from a single-vehicle accident, it may be in your best interest to pay for car repairs out of pocket to avoid raising your monthly insurance premium. Of course, this won’t be the case if a major car repair is obviously going to be needed.
Need a Major Car Repair?
When your car is in a wreck, the biggest priority is certainly getting it repaired, but it’s not always easy to decide if you should pay out of pocket or file a claim with your insurance company. Lafayette German Car Repair Service, ASE-certified technicians can help you make that choice by accessing your car. Contact us today at (925) 284-3390, or request an appointment online
