Auto Insurance Claims/insurance claim

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Expert: Bennie719 - 9/2/2008


Question
I had a loaner car while my car was being serviced. It was providied by Enterprise, and I declined additional insurance. I turned too hard to the right in a driveway, and have scraped the loaner car. My Deductible is $500. and I;m wondering if this is expensive (over $1000) should i claim on my insurance, and how long can/ will my insurance rates rise?

Answer
Hi Helen,
Most companies consider a fault accident that involves between $500 and $750 to be a "chargeable" accident which will increase your rate for the next 3 years (in most states).

I suggest that you call your personal Agent for a one-on-one, off the record discussion to learn just how your insurance company will react if you file the claim.

Good luck,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area

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Bennie719

Expertise

I have extensive knowledge in Personal Auto, Homeowners Insurance and Personal Umbrella coverage. I am also thoroughly familiar with claims handeling procedures. Will answer questions related to the above.

Experience

Experience in the area: Served as an expert at askme.com from 7/2000 thru 10/2002 in the catagories of general insurance, auto and home insurance. Answered 422 questions before that site closed. Licensed in California since 1961, first in Life and Health for 2 + years and as a Property/Casualty Agent/Broker since 1964. I sold my business and took early retirement in 1998. Still maintain a valid California Property/Casualty Agent/Broker license. I have been a volunteer at allexperts.com since 2002. I can provide assistance in the following fields: Property and Casualty Insurance, Insurance Law, Auto Insurance Claims.

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