Should I contact my own insurance for an auto accident where I’m not at fault?
Recently, someone backed into my car in a parking lot, causing damage to the front. We exchanged information, and initially, the other driver wanted to settle without going through insurance, which I was fine with. However, after reaching out to a few repair shops, I learned that assessing the full extent of the damage is challenging without a thorough diagnostic, as there are numerous sensors, cameras, and lights in that area. Only one shop provided a preliminary estimate after assessing the visible damage.
Eventually, we decided to involve insurance. The other driver’s insurance accepted full liability and sent an adjuster to assess the damage. However, their estimate turned out to be quite low—lower than the estimate I received from the shop. They mentioned that I would need to find a repair shop willing to work with their coverage rate. If any additional damage is revealed during repairs, the shop would need to coordinate with the insurance for extra costs.
Throughout this process, I’ve felt as though the other driver’s insurance is treating me like I’m trying to take advantage of the situation. When I asked what would happen if a shop refused to repair my car due to their low estimate, they told me I would be responsible for covering the difference.
Now, I’m considering whether it would be wise to report this incident to my own insurance company. Would they handle the communication with the other driver’s insurance, sparing me from dealing with it directly?
Thanks for your advice!
It sounds like you’re in a frustrating situation, and it’s understandable that you’re considering reaching out to your own insurance. Here are a few points to consider:
Reporting the Incident: It’s generally a good idea to report the accident to your insurance company, even if you’re not at fault. They can document the incident and provide you with guidance throughout the process.
Dealing with the Other Party’s Insurance: Your insurance company can often handle communication with the other party’s insurance on your behalf. This can alleviate some stress, as they have experience dealing with claims and negotiations.
Insufficient Estimates: If you believe the estimate from the other insurance company is too low, your insurance can help you advocate for a more accurate assessment, especially if there’s hidden damage (like sensors or wiring).
Coverage Considerations: Before reaching out, check your policy for any relevant terms—such as whether your coverage includes rental cars or if they have a specific process for handling claims.
Your Premiums: Since you’re not at fault, this incident shouldn’t impact your premiums. However, it’s worth confirming with your insurer.
Overall, contacting your insurance may provide you with additional support and clarity, and they can help make sure you’re fairly compensated for the damage.