[Shovelman]

If you file a claim the insurance can go up dramatically. A few years ago I was hit from behind, $2400 to repair. The other driver was at fault and Michigan is a no fault state so I filed with my insurer. Since it was my first claim my rate was not increased. I could have filed with the other driver's insurer for the 500 deductible. I asked my insurer what that would do to his rate. If it was my company would add $1750 / year for 4 years. I called the other guy and he came right over with the cash and a waiver provided by his insurer.

Not bashing insurance companies here, just a caution to drivers. Why so much for only a $500 claim? Reasonable and Customary (R&C) charges by health care providers are normally negotiated down by about 75% by health insurers but in Michigan auto insurers are required to pay the R&C charges. To defray this ridiculous burden they spread the cost broadly.