Expert: webfoot - 12/10/2006

Question
Hi:
A teenager drove out of a parking lot without looking, and smashed my bumper, and damaged my parking light. This happened in Connecticut. The policeman that arrived told me he was giving the teenager a citation. My insurance company told me that since the other driver was at fault I have two choices for making a claim:
1)My insurance company would pay for the damages, but they would need to get my 500 deductable from the other insurance company. They told me that sometimes they can only get 90% of the deductable back. They also told me that they would recommend a body shop.

2) I could get the police report and file a claim with the other insurance company, AllState.

It seems to me that it is easier to get everything done with my insurance company. But I've seen on this site that the recommended tactic is to have the other insurance company pay. I'm concerned that the other insurance company might give me a low estimate for the repair.

Could you recommend the best course of action? Also, do you think my insurance company will raise my rates because I reported the accident to them or will raise my rates if I use them to pay for the repairs (which I assume will be reimbursed by the other insurance company.

Thanks,

David  

Answer
The advice that you've been given so far is pretty much correct.  It is generally easier to just let your own carrier handle the claim and recover the deductible.  

As to a potential rate increase, every state and every company are different.  Your agent should be able to address that issue up front.

I generally recommend that if a vehicle is still safely drivable, you may want to file a claim with the other carrier.  You'll need to give them the opportunity to contact and interview their insured.  This is not a delay tactic but is required by law.  A police report alone does not determine liability.  If their insured cooperates, then the repair process will likely start within a week or so.  If you learn of any issues such as coverage questions involving the other driver, the other driver not cooperating (returning calls) or dispute of liability, then go ahead with your own carrier.  If your vehicle is not drivable, then I'd go ahead and file with your carrier to get the repair going.

I wouldn't worry about the initial estimate.  Either company has the same obligation which is to pay for a proper repair.  Any good body shop will secure any additional auth needed through the supplement process with the insurance company.  Either company may offer a repair through one of their "direct" or "Pro" shops.  

Most of the time, this is a great way to go as is bypasses the delays caused by the supplement process and the repairs are also warranted nationwide by the insurance company, for as long as you own your car.  Generally speaking, these shops do very good work. Otherwise, the insurance company wouldn't be willing to put their name behind it.  The programs are not about saving money on the actual repair as much as controlling the repair process, quality, cycle time and avoiding excessive delays.

Good luck and let me know if you have any other questions.