If your auto policy includes collision and comprehensive coverage, your insurance company may pay to cover the damages from a single car accident, minus your deductible. If you don't have collision or full-risk coverage, you'll have to pay for the damage out of pocket. Many individual car accidents are considered at fault, so your insurance company may increase your rate after the policy is renewed if you decide to file a claim. If the damage to your car is significant or exceeds the cost of your deductible, it may make sense to file a car insurance claim with your insurer.
This information is not an insurance policy, does not refer to any specific insurance policy, and does not modify any provision, limitation or exclusion that is expressly stated in any insurance policy. If the damage is minimal and the repairs will cost less than your car insurance deductible, it may not make sense to file a claim. If you've been involved in a rental car accident, you'll also need to notify the rental agency, even if you file a claim through your personal car insurance. Property damage (to the car or surrounding property) is often the most common result of a single car accident, such as hitting a telephone pole or hitting a handrail.
Regardless of whether you decide to file a single vehicle accident insurance claim, it is recommended that you notify your insurer of the accident immediately after it occurs. If the damage is considered unavoidable and unexpected, comprehensive auto insurance coverage applies.
