My neighbor accidentally hit my parked car the other night (a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek). The impact caused part of the bumper to come loose, and there are several black streaks on it. I took it to an auto body shop, and they were able to reattach the bumper, but they did mention some minor cracks inside. Additionally, one of the fog lights broke, although it still works.
I’m wondering if I should file a claim to cover the repairs. I feel hesitant about raising my neighbor’s insurance rates for what seems like a minor issue, but I just paid off my car and would hate to see its value decrease because of this damage. The total repair cost for the bumper and fog light, including labor, is estimated to be around $2,000 out of pocket. I have a feeling my neighbor may not be willing to cover that amount. What would you do in my situation?
It’s definitely a tricky situation, especially since it’s involving a neighbor. Ultimately, you have to weigh the potential long-term effects of the damage against the immediate discomfort of filing a claim.
If the repair costs are estimated at around $2,000, it’s understandable that you’d want to ensure your vehicle is fully fixed, especially since you just paid it off. Even minor damage can affect resale value, and having a properly functioning fog light is important for safety.
Before deciding to file a claim, it might be worth having a direct conversation with your neighbor. Explain the situation and the estimated costs. They might be willing to work out a payment plan or help you cover some of the expenses without going through insurance.
If you do decide to file a claim, keep in mind that insurance rates can vary based on the company and your previous claims. It might be a good idea to check with your insurer about potential impacts on your premium.
In the end, consider what feels right for you; whether that means working it out directly with your neighbor or filing a claim. Your peace of mind is important too!