Before you run out and file a claim with your auto insurance company, it pays to think through all the variable involved with making a claim. For example if you had someone come and break your side vehicle window, first check to see what your deductible is. If your deductible is over $500 you would be better off taking your car to an auto glass repair shop and getting a quote. If the quote to fix the window is less than $500, don't bother filing a claim and fix the window yourself.
Let's say you get rear ended driving to work. You take down the insurance information of the other driver and you then you go get an estimate to fix or replace your bumper. If the damage caused costs $750 to fix and your deductible is $500 you still may want to consider paying for the damage out of your pocket, because if you file a claim your premiums could go up by as much as 40%.
Many auto insurance companies use an industry standard of approximately 40% to increase your premiums if you file a claim. Each company is different, so when you're getting rate quotes ask them what the average premium is when someone files an auto insurance claim. In some cases your very first accident with your insurance company can be excused and you won't see an increase in your premiums. Make sure to ask about this when you are looking at many auto insurers like Geico, Nationwide, AIG, Insurance.com, All State and Progressive.
