I hit a tree

[shuurik]

What is the name of your state?Ky

On a rainy night trying to correct the car, I lost control and hit a tree. There was no police involved, no injury, just a big dent on the side of the car and a little on bumber, and scratches on the side of the car. Every electrical part is working. I haven't contacted my insurance yet (I did not know what to do). Seems like the repairs would cost more than $1000. The car is 5 year old, over K100 miles.
My question is, is it worth to claim this accident with insurance company (and probably get a premium increase), or repair it myself? I have never filed a claim and don't know how it will affect me in the future. Your advise will be greatly appreciated.

 

[dmalone]

More that likely your insurance premium would increase. And even if you get another vehicle sometime in the future, this is still going to be on your insurance record. Since this vehicle has over 100,000 miles, you also need to think about how much longer you are going to have this vehicle. Is it worth paying a penalty for a vehicle you are not going to have for the next 5 or 10 years.

If you are 'bent' on getting the vehicle repaired, I would recommend doing it yourself. Another option you might consider; depending on the amount of damage, you might just be able to go to a junkyard and buy the damaged part. If it is just a bumber or fender or even another door, you can usually pick up one for less than a a few hundred.

I have been in my fair share of 'accidents': mailboxes, ditches, etc... And unless you are driving a brand new Lexus, I would just recommend doing it yourself and saving yourself the hassle of dealing with your insurance.

 

[shuurik]

Thank you for your reply. I am new to this country and cannot understand the "whole purpose of insurance" - either way the consumer pays even if he/she has an insurance.
I figured, I could probably try to fix the car myself (the biggest damage is on the fender, and found a web site where they are sold for $98, not painted though. Junk yard is a good idea also.
Thank you again for your insight, I needed to see what other people think about it.

 

[Lynx 36]

Thank you for your reply. I am new to this country and cannot understand the "whole purpose of insurance" - either way the consumer pays even if he/she has an insurance.
I figured, I could probably try to fix the car myself (the biggest damage is on the fender, and found a web site where they are sold for $98, not painted though. Junk yard is a good idea also.
Thank you again for your insight, I needed to see what other people think about it.

Get an estimate first. tell the body shop you want used and aftermarket parts as you are paying yourself.