SHOULD I FILE AN AUTO INSURANCE CLAIM // When to file an auto damage claim, auto claim advice

Welcome to the Auto Body Advocate Channel, where my goal is to give you a helpful auto body related video each week.
I'm going to help you decide if you should file an auto damage claim or not. My goal with this video is to keep more money in your pocket in the long run.
Don't rush to call your insurance company, claims can count against you, I'm going to tell you when to file, and when not to, and save you money on your next bad accident.
Stick till the end to hear what my agent told me when I asked for advice on filing a claim.
Comment has filing a claim ever cost you money?
I had my insurance tow my vehicle twice, then found out later at my renewal when my rates went way up, turns out each tow counted against me as a claim, when I could have easily paid for them out of pocket and saved money. Towing, glass, comprehensive, not at fault, speeding can all count against you. However, every insurance company is different.
Do you have an agent you can trust?
Captive agent, vs independent agent that works for you, vs direct.
Get an estimate and talk to your agent
Ask them how much will your rate go up, and for how long, then do a cost benefit analysis.
Don't file just because it's over your deductible.
Beware, repairs can be more than you think, and take longer than you think.
Beware of 3rd party claims.
Consider rental expenses.
If you don't have an agent, I talked to mine for you.

How long will my repairs take?
   • HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO FIX MY CAR? ...  

I'm working hard to grow this channel, and get my message to more people. Subscribing, commenting, liking, sharing, and watching my other videos really does help me get the word out.

-Even good drivers have bad accidents-

Thanks for watching,
-Auto Body Advocate

00:00 When to file an auto damage claim
00:52 My experience with claims costing me money
01:09 Even no fault, and minor claims can cost you
01:53 Don't rush to call your insurance company
02:08 Ask your agent
02:53 Cost benefit analysis
03:35 Don't file a claim just because it's over your deductible
04:00 Consider rental car expenses
04:20 Consider additional repair costs
04:42 3rd party claims dangers
05:40 My agents advice
07:09 Gag reel