Is involving my insurance worth it?
From what I understand, any claim I make could lead to an increase in my rates.
I live in California, but the accident occurred at a gas station in Carson City, NV. I was the victim of a hit-and-run and was too shaken to catch the license plate of the driver. I’m currently trying to get the surveillance footage from the business where it happened.
The repairs might cost around $2,500 to $3,000. While I could cover that expense myself, I’d prefer to conserve my cash.
Should I contact my insurance about this?
It’s definitely a tough situation, and I can understand your hesitation to involve insurance, especially considering the potential for higher rates. Since you were the victim of a hit-and-run, your insurance may be able to help you with the repairs, potentially through your collision coverage or uninsured motorist coverage.
Here are a few things to consider before deciding:
Type of Coverage: Check if you have collision or uninsured motorist coverage, as these may cover hit-and-run incidents.
Deductible: If you decide to file a claim, consider the amount of your deductible. If it’s close to the estimated repair costs, it might not make sense to involve insurance.
Rate Impact: It’s true that filing a claim can sometimes lead to higher rates, but this isn’t always the case. Since you’re the victim in a hit-and-run, some insurers may not hold it against you.
Evidence: If you can get the video from the gas station, that could help strengthen your case, whether you go through insurance or decide to pursue it legally.
Repair Costs: If you can afford to pay for the repairs yourself and prefer to avoid a claim, that’s a valid choice.
Ultimately, it might be worth having a brief chat with your insurance agent to discuss your options without committing to a claim. They can provide guidance on how filing a claim might affect your policy and whether it’s worth it in your situation.