Insurance is there for losses you cannot comfortably absorb on your own. Filing for minor damage, especially when the repair cost is only a little above your deductible, can sometimes cost you more in the long run. Claims history is one of the factors many insurers consider when setting your price or deciding whether to renew a policy.

Before filing, get a repair estimate and subtract your deductible. If the amount left is small, consider paying it yourself and keeping your record clean. Many insurers offer claims-free discounts, and a history without claims can also help when you shop for quotes later.

That does not mean avoiding legitimate claims. If the damage is significant, if someone was injured, or if you are unsure how bad the problem really is, contact your insurer or agent and ask how a claim might work. Some questions may be logged even without a formal claim, so ask how your insurer handles them. Use your coverage when it matters, and handle the small stuff yourself when you comfortably can.