How to File an Insurance Claim for Multiple Old Car Damages?
2 Answers
After an accident, the first step is to promptly report the incident to your respective insurance company and the traffic management authorities, informing the insurer of the location of the damaged vehicle. Once the accident is confirmed, all involved vehicles should immediately proceed to the designated loss assessment point at the insurance claim service center to determine the extent of the damage. Submit the claim documents to the repair shop, provide them with a letter of authorization to claim on your behalf from the insurance company, and pay your portion of the repair costs.
My car is five years old with several old scratches on the body. Last year, just before the insurance was about to expire, I hit a lamp post and took the opportunity to have the repair shop fix the old damages along with this accident. When the claims adjuster came, I gave the mechanic a wink, and he listed all the old scratches on the front bumper as damages caused by this accident. However, I must warn you that this kind of maneuver is risky. Insurance companies are sharp; if the old damages are too obvious, they might catch on. I suggest you first assess the repair costs. Minor scratches that can be fixed with a touch-up pen aren’t worth the hassle, while larger old damages are better handled by paying a professional panel beater out of pocket. After all, the increase in next year’s premium might end up costing more than the repair itself, making it not worth it.
