Despite car insurance company claims of wanting to know about every minor scrape and fender-bender that you're involved in, you are not mandated by law to report every accident to your insurance provider. In fact when it comes to filing an accident claim, it's best to think twice if damages are minimal.

Use Common Sense When Filing an Accident Claim

If your car repairs cost less than your deductible, it's in your best interest to refrain from filing a claim and paying the repair bill out of your own pocket. A small claim won't cause your premiums to jump, but your premiums may experience a spike if your car insurance provider notices a pattern of multiple claims. 

You should also give thought to filing a claim if no other parties were involved in the accident. Say, for example, you crumple your car's rear fender after backing into a maple tree. You will be better off paying for the repairs, especially if your driving record is stained with speeding tickets or other moving violations. Otherwise, your insurance provider may identify you as a high-risk driver and raise your insurance premium, or refuse to renew your coverage.

Conversely, if you're involved in an accident with another driver, you should always file an accident claim. Insurance providers aren't too keen on surprises. Especially after learning of an accident via a police report or from the other involved party filing a claim against you. This then puts your provider at a disadvantage since it lacks your side of the story. 

Shop Providers and Obtain an Insurance Quote Online

If the worst-case scenario occurs and your auto insurance provider drops your coverage, you'll need to act fast and find a new carrier. You can easily compare insurance quotes online from a variety of providers. The more rates you compare, the better your chances of finding car auto insurance coverage that best meets your budget.