Question
Should I file a claim through State Farm?
I backed my new car into a pole. I have full coverage insurance and my deductible for collision is $500. I took my car to various CHEAP body shops and got quotes ranging between $1600-$2000+. Would it be in my best interest to file a claim so that insurance can cover my new car, repairing it at a body shop that will do excellent work, but possibly raise my premium? Or would it be better to pay out of pocket for a job that may make my car look less than new? FYI: I have State Farm.
Answer
These kinds of situations are going to depend greatly on your current finances and insurance premiums. If you've previously had a clean record, an accident will typically increase your rates by about 20 to 30%. At the same time, coming up with $2k right this moment might be a challenge. You may want to talk it over with your State Farm agent to see what they would do in the event of a claim being filed. Their perspective might help you make your decision.