How to File an Insurance Claim for a Self-Inflicted Car Scratch?
2 Answers
Owners should immediately report the incident to the police, who will then assist in identifying the responsible party. It is also crucial to photograph the accident scene, including the location of the incident, the full view of the vehicle with its license plate, and the damaged areas. Some car owners may not be aware that dashcams are not limited to recording only while the vehicle is in motion. Even when the car is parked and turned off, the dashcam can still function. Reporting to the police allows officers to review nearby surveillance footage to track down the perpetrator, which is part of the standard procedure. If the traffic police identify the responsible party, they will be liable for compensation.
When I first bought my car, I scraped the guardrail while reversing and was extremely anxious. First, stay calm—whether you can claim insurance depends on your policy type. If you have comprehensive or collision coverage, you can file a claim for your own car's damage. Step 1: Stop immediately to inspect the damage, take clear photos with your phone, including scratches and the surrounding environment, from multiple angles for evidence. Step 2: Don’t drive away hastily—call your insurance company’s customer service to report the incident, clearly stating the time and location. They’ll guide you on next steps, like filling out forms or uploading photos via their app. Step 3: Be aware of the deductible, usually a few hundred dollars, which you’ll need to pay upfront before reimbursement. For minor damage, the deductible might even exceed the repair cost, making it not worth claiming. Step 4: Filing a claim may slightly increase your premium the next year—I once skipped reporting a small scrape to avoid hassle. If the damage is severe and affects safety, get it fixed promptly; delaying could lead to expired coverage. Always drive carefully, especially when reversing—take it slow.
