A few months ago, one of our clients, Jeremy, called us in a panic. On his way home from work, he swerved to avoid a deer, hit a tree, and smashed the front end of his car. No one was hurt, thankfully…but the car looked rough.
“Should I file a claim?” he asked.
That’s a question we often hear. And the answer, just like it was for Jeremy, is: it depends.
The Dilemma
Jeremy’s deductible was $1,000. The repair shop quoted him $1,273 to fix the car. Filing a claim would have only netted him $273 and increased the risk of higher premiums next year.
That’s the tricky thing about insurance claims. Filing isn’t always the smartest move. Sometimes it’s worth it. Sometimes it’s better to pay out of pocket. The key is to know the difference.
When Filing Makes Sense
Here are three situations where filing an insurance claim is usually the right move:
- When someone is injured. If a car accident leads to medical bills, get your insurance company involved right away.
- When fault isn’t clear. Let the insurance companies sort it out, it’s what they’re there for.
- When the damage is significant. If you’re facing thousands of dollars in repairs or a total loss, filing a claim protects your savings.
How to File Without the Stress
If you find yourself in a situation like Jeremy’s…but with more significant damage…here’s what to do:
- Call the police if needed. A report can help your case.
- Document everything. Photos, names, numbers, receipts…keep it all.
- Contact your insurance company. Ask what they need and how long you have to file.
- File your claim. Most carriers let you do it online, by phone, or through an app.
From there, an adjuster will investigate and determine the payout. Straightforward claims may wrap up in weeks, while more complex cases can stretch into months.
Jeremy’s Decision
In Jeremy’s case, he decided not to file. He used his emergency fund to cover the repairs and kept his insurance record clean. But here’s the important part: he didn’t make that decision alone. He called us first, and together we weighed the pros and cons.
That’s what we’re here for: to help you navigate these moments, so you’re not left guessing.
Why It Matters
An insurance claim can be a lifeline when disaster strikes. But sometimes, not filing is the smarter move. Knowing the difference could save you money, stress, and long-term headaches.
At Glidewell, our job isn’t just helping you get coverage. It’s guiding you through the real-life decisions that come with it…so when life throws you a curveball, you can respond with confidence.
Because insurance isn’t just about protection. It’s about peace of mind.
