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Auto Insurance Claims/multiple claims, when to file?

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Expert: - 7/26/2011


Question
Last month I filed my first ever insurance claim and tarnished my perfect driving record, when I dented the side of my pickup truck exiting a car wash. I struck a stationary object and no damage was done to anything but my vehicle. I filed a claim and paid my deductible. The cost to the insurance company was $2500. Yesterday I again hit a stationary object, a landscaping rock, as I was existing a commercial loading dock/driveway by misjudging the corner and not being able to see the rock that I hit. The damage to my vehicle is more severe than the previous accident and at a quick estimate I would say between $4-7,000.00. My policy renews in two months should I wait to file a new claim on this most recent damage or should I file a claim tomorrow? I am concerned that my rate will increase astronomically when it renews in two months. Also, I am planing on taking the vehicle on a road trip in one week. The truck will never be back from the body shop by then. In this case do I then file a claim when I return from the trip? I would like to know when I should file this claim and what to expect from my insurance company. Thank you.

Answer
I'd say just make the claim when convenient to you.  It really doesn't matter in the long run.  If you file now, they may surcharge before your next renewal.  If you wait until after the renewal, you'll get surcharged then.  Either way the surcharge will last the same amount of time.

Auto Insurance Claims

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Claims Guy

Expertise

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer......I can answer questions related to any aspect of Automobile insurance claims and coverages. I can provide an inside look at how insurers operate. I always treat my customers fairly and want to help make sure you are treated fairly. However, please keep in mind that being treated fairly according to the law does not guarantee that you will get what you want. I can also answer some questions regarding Homeowner's and other types of insurance claims. I have handled all types of auto insurance claims and coverages. I am NOT an automotive repair expert but can give advice re how insurers handle complex repair issues. Please keep in mind that every state has its own set of laws pertaining to rules of the road, liability, and insurance. No one is an expert on every state. I am most familiar with laws in Maryland, DC, West Virginia, and Virginia, but will attempt to answer questions for other states. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Experience

I am currently an Auto Claims Manager for a large insurance company. I have 18 years experience in the industry, having worked as a Claims Adjuster, Injury Settlement Negotiator, Claims Manager, SIU/Fraud Investigator, and Compliance Officer. I am not an attorney an cannot provide legal advice. My advice will be my opinion based on my experience.

Organizations
CPCU Society. Adjusters license in multiple states. International Association of Specal Investigators

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Finance and have completed the AIC and CPCU designations.

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