First Time Car Accident California - Do I claim or pay out of pocket?

tmdm

Hello all,

First time on this forum and am seeking assistance from everyone. Very stupidly, I was driving my car out of the garage and turned the wheel a little too soon, catching the rear passenger door and rear wheel body panelling on the wall. It didn't scratch, but it left two hefty dents, crushing part of the wheel arch. I took it to PDR who said it needs to go to the body shop. I have a 2016 leased Ford Fusion. I contacted my insurance company who filed a claim, but now I am not so sure I should be doing that. I got a quote of $1500 from Ford's body shop to repair it which is only $500 more than my deductible ($1000). I am trying to decide whether:

1. Cancel the claim, pay out of pocket and hope the premium does not go up since now it is reported, it is on record (even though it will show as $0.00 paid out)

2. Go ahead with the claim since I have a great driving record, no tickets, no claims to date, nothing. And hope the premium doesn't go up substantially as the payout amount by the insurance won't be substantial.

I am not sure what to do and have to make a decision pretty quick. I am in Los Angeles, CA (high premiums already) What would you do?

My insurance company is Geico. Geico is much cheaper than any other coverage for me by almost $1000 every 6 months. I am worried that the fact I have reported it, regardless if I pay out of pocket it is going to increase. I already struggle to pay my insurance so I am trying to minimise the damage. Thank you! Thank you! I appreciate all fo your help.

Robin9

Tmdm - this is a UK site. You will get better advice from a US one.