I need some advice on handling an auto insurance claim. Last week, during bad weather, I accidentally damaged the side mirror of an oncoming car while making a slow turn. My car has minimal damage, but I reported the accident to my insurance, Progressive. After discussing it with my SO, mechanic, and a friend in the insurance field, we decided it would be better to cover the damage out of pocket. The other driver agreed to cancel their claim, but Progressive has informed me that they cannot cancel mine.
My concerns are:
- Can Progressive legally refuse to cancel my claim in a no-fault state like NY?
- How likely is it that my rates will increase or that they might drop me entirely, especially since I had a total loss two years ago?
Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated!
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A claim can be cancelled. Despite being termed a retreat, it persists. Regardless, it will appear on your record.
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Indeed, it is not possible to cancel a claim. If you inform your adjuster that you will be covering the cost out of pocket, they will close the claim without paying for the collision and property damage. Still, they will finalise 100% of their liability against you, and as a result, it will be on file in your claims history (iso). At this point, I would just let Progressive handle damages because the damage has already been done.
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That concludes our conversation. I was not hoping for this, but this is what I was figuring! Are there any advantages to covering the damages out of pocket, as far as you know?
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Only if you can persuade your insurance provider to waive the excess cost of the claim. Unfortunately, since the premium is incorporated into the system, that is unlikely to occur. Save your money and let your insurance take care of the rest.