 TITLE: How to File a Car Insurance Claim CONTENT: When Do You File a Car Insurance Claim?\n---------------------------------------\nYou're not obligated to file a claim if you're involved in an auto accident. But before you decide to pay out of pocket for repairs or medical expenses, consider the following:\n*   Did you damage the other party's vehicle?\n*   Are you unable to cover the cost of the damages?\n*   Did you or someone in the other party incur a total loss?\n*   Can you operate your vehicle safely?\n*   Do the cost of damages exceed your deductible?\n*   Were injuries sustained in the accident?\nIt's worth filing a claim if you answered yes to any of these questions. Even if the accident was minor, paying out of pocket for repairs may not be the only costs involved. If you're at fault, the other party could seek further damages down the road.\nNot at fault for the accident? You can file a claim with the other driver's auto insurance provider if you have their information. Contact the company right away, or start a claim online if the company offers this option. END