Should I get my insurance company involved or pay for the damage myself if I backed into a tree?

I was backing out of my driveway and hit a tree while attempting to avoid other parked cars. Apparently I hit the tree hard enough that it damaged my frame and now the doors on the driver side won't open. I am 61, have a good driving record, and am insured with Amica. Should I file a claim?

Ultimately it will depend on your deductible and the extent of the damage. Unfortunately, backing into a tree will be considered an "at-fault" accident if you file a claim with Amica.

Our most recent State of Insurance report shows that at-fault accidents increase rates by about $450/year in Indiana. Since an accident will impact your rate for 3 years, you will end up paying around $1,350 in additional premium, not including your deductible. I would recommend getting a repair estimate from a few different shops before you make a decision. If the repair cost is less than the potential increase in your premium plus your deductible, then it's probably best to pay for the repair out of pocket. If the repair costs are significantly higher than that amount, it might be a good idea to file a claim. If you're still unsure, consult our claims calculator and guide to filing auto claims for more help.