The Scenario
Assuming you're driving during the day with high visibility, spotting and keeping away from a pothole is simple on the off-chance that you're focusing, and assuming the street is somewhat decent. In any case, assuming it's a dull and blustery evening, or then again, in the event that you're distracted, you could hear that nauseating "Thump! Crunch!" That implies something terrible has happened to your vehicle. Yep, you ran over a pothole. Now what? It could leave you feeling a little on edge. Be that as it may, assuming the pothole is of considerable size, or then again, on the off chance that you're going at an excessive speed, the impact may cause considerable damage to your vehicle. Do you file a claim? How does it affect your insurance? Let’s consider your options.
Option 1 Forgo Filing A Claim
Assuming your vehicle has minimal damage, you know, a few minor dings and scratches (if that), it may be wise to avoid filing a claim with your insurance company. When you do the math, and take into consideration your deductible, it simply may not be worth the time and energy. If the costs are relatively low, you may want to pay for the repairs yourself.
Option 2 Seek Reimbursement From The Government
Contingent upon the area you live in, and the circumstances, the governmental authority may be liable for the damage to your car. If so, it's possible to get repayment. Keep in mind that seeking reimbursement from a government authority can be a lengthy process, so be ready to pay the expense up front, and be reimbursed later.
Three things you must have: Documentation, documentation, documentation!
Snap a picture of the pothole at the hour of the episode.
Snap a picture of the harm done to your vehicle.
Note the date and season of the mishap.
Get somewhere around two estimates from two repair facilities
Key Points To Remember
Sometimes the damage sustained is a lower dollar amount than your deductible, which would make filing a claim irrelevant.
You can claim damage in potholes easily, but it may not be worth the hassle and may result in higher insurance rates.
If you report a pothole claim, your insurance carrier files it as an at-fault claim when a car is involved in a single-vehicle accident. Hitting a pothole is considered a collision. Insurance carriers file a pothole claim as an at-fault claim when a car is involved in a single-vehicle accident. As a result of filing a claim, your collision deductible will apply, and you may have to pay more at your next renewal.
According to where the pothole is located, you may be able to obtain reimbursement from the county, city, or state responsible for the pothole.
You must have proper documentation for the claim regardless of whether it is with the government or your insurance company.
Report State of Michigan potholes at MDOT. Most state roads begin with M, I or US designations (e.g., I-75, M-28, US-23). Call 888-296-4546 or report online. Once the report is received by MDOT, the appropriate regional office will handle necessary steps.
Michigan Online Form Link Here