Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

How does my insurance company handle a claim if I hit a car that was already damaged?

I was approaching an intersection when the light was yellow. The car in front of me slammed on their brakes before the light turned red and I lightly tapped their back bumper. I noticed before I hit them that their bumper had already been damaged and I'm worried that they will say that I was the cause of the the dents that were already there. What should I do?

Aug 13, 2024 Upper Marlboro, MD

Answer
Author profile picture
The Zebra
The nation's leading independent insurance comparison site

The Zebra is an independent insurance advisor and quote comparison site with headquarters in Austin, Texas. Utilizing its real-time quote comparison …

After any sort of collision, it's always recommended that you take pictures at the scene. Pictures should be taken of both vehicles, the location of the crash, and the other driver's info and license plate. When your insurance company investigates the crash and assesses the damage on the car that you hit, they will likely be able to tell if there was damage on the vehicle prior to the accident. I would also recommend letting them know about the existing damage when you first give your statement so they can be aware of the details before they begin their investigation.

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

Will GEICO increase my rates if I file a windshield claim?

Filing a windshield claim with GEICO usually won’t cause your car insurance rates to go up. These repairs fall under comprehensive coverage and are often treated as “no-fault,” meaning they don’t count against you like an at-fault accident might. Small chip repairs are sometimes even free with no d…
Sep 10, 2025 Charlotte, NC

What happens if someone makes a false car insurance claim against me?

Thank you for your question. After an accident, I recommend taking pictures and recording as much information as possible. If the fault is difficult to determine, call 911 and file a police report. If you have any of this information currently, it can be helpful.At this point, I recommend contactin…
Jan 16, 2024 Madison, WI

If I backed into another person's car (which was sitting in their driveway), should I file a claim if repairs are estimated to be $2,500?

Hello, Since there is no damage to your vehicle, you would not need to file a claim. However, the person that you hit has the option to file a claim. You can offer to pay for the damages out of pocket to avoid the accident going on your record. Ultimately, it is up to the other party as to whether …
Aug 13, 2024 Chicago, IL

Removing a claim from my insurance record

I would recommend getting what's called a CLUE Report. This is a comprehensive loss report. It would show your entire loss history with your name. Show this to your insurance company to prove you did not have an accident. This should remove the claim you are being rated for. Best of luck.
Aug 13, 2024 Salem, Oregon