I would find out how much repair is compared to your deductible and then decide of your insurance going up is worth it as well. Because when you make a claim your insurance goes up.

Typically, you would pay your collision deductible and the insurance carrier would cover the rest. Once you have established a claim, you can pay the shop directly with a check received from the insurance company or in some cases they can pay the repair shop directly. You can't just get it fixed and then present the insurance co. with a bill though.

Have a couple of estimates done. See how much more than your deductible it will be to fix and then decide whether to pay out of pocket or let the insurance company pay. Keep in mind, even though no other car was involved and the repairs won't likely be that much, they can (and will) still consider that an "accident" and apply a surcharge 6 times out of 10.

To submit a claim you would contact your insurance rep. they will send out someone to check out the damage and take pictures. They will seek out the damage worth and many will give you a check minus the deductible.

If the damage is small it would be advisable to repair it out of pocket and not report it as many insurance companies will increase your payments whenever a claim is submitted.

Most fender benders are cheaper then deductibles anyway and you be helping yourself just to have it repaired out of pocket.

Bummer. I find it easier and quicker to pay, however some panel beaters here will only do insurance jobs.

That depends upon how expensive it will be to repair the damage and how much money you can spend to do so.

Have the damage assessed by a good body shop and explain that you are on the fence about claiming it on your insurance. It will certainly drive up your premium. If the damage is minimal then I would just eat the cost. If it involves major structural damage or the airbag went off you should use your insurance. Airbags are very expensive and worth having replaced by a pro. They are life-savers and your life depends on them.

Depending on your insurance company, some let you report a claim online, and others have a number. You can call the company direct, or speak to your agent. usually the company has a 24-7 number right on your card. progressive is who I ahve and they have it on the back of the card.

As for damages, You would have to get an estimate of the damage that is done from a garage or shop, usually about 3 estimates then decide is its worth turning into the insurance being the cost of your deductible.If your deductible is 500.00 and the damage is 250.00 its obvious that you would be better paying the 250.00 and not turning it into the insurance. The insurance company will take the lowest estimate if you choose to have the vehicle repaired by the shop you choose, otherwise they may have a shop that is with teh company, and get their own quoted price if you choose to use their garage.

As long as no other party is involved and no injuries were incurred I would say that is your best option.

Good luck,