Car with Exisiting Damage: Would Adding Collision/comp Be Worth It?

[jen202]

Hello, I have a 2007 Toyota Sienna with 155,000 miles. I unfortunately have been in a number of accidents, and have between $5-7K in damage on it since I did not have collision or comprehensive insurance. My bad...I know I should have had it. Some of the accidents were hit and run though and not my fault, or cracked windshields from rocks. The damage is nothing that makes it undriveable or not able to pass inspection, but just a lot of damage/dents to the bumper, fenders, doors, hood, grill, etc. I fixed some damage myself (like replacing the side-view mirror and windshield and light assembly), but I don't have the money to fix the rest.

I have been thinking of adding collision and comprehensive. I would just cost me a mere $200 a year total to add this since I have no tickets or insurance claims in the last 5 years. The insurance company doesn't ask about previous accidents. But would it be worth it at this point? Would money be deducted from any future claim paid out? Conversely, could I also have money deducted from the premiums I would pay (a discount) since there is existing damage? I really want to add the insurance so I am covered from future accidents.

Thanks a lot!

 

[iiinycboi]

adding full coverage now would only cover you in the condition it stays in now.

there are no discounts because it has damage, and they will require you to get a photo inspection, so they know what your car looks like before coverage.

why do you REALLY want full coverage?

 

[FullAuto]

Would money be deducted from any future claim paid out?
Yes.

Conversely, could I also have money deducted from the premiums I would pay (a discount) since there is existing damage?
No. In fact, you'll pay premium as if it were perfect and then when/if you make a claim, they'll hammer down the value of the car. And if damage was done to already damaged parts, they can possibly owe you nothing. If the loss damage requires replacement of a part that already required replacement, then you are in preloss condition.

And if you think they won't be able to tell it was previous, you would be wrong.

 

[Josh]

As one that has hit two deer, I believe in comprehensive. Collision on that car? Maybe, maybe not. The reality is that if you wrap the thing around a telephone poll or for some reason it becomes undriveable, could you afford a replacement? If you can't afford to fix it, my guess is not. That being the case, you shouldn't risk more than you can afford to lose.

For less than $20/month I think it's a no-brainer.

 

[jen202]

As one that has hit two deer, I believe in comprehensive. Collision on that car? Maybe, maybe not. The reality is that if you wrap the thing around a telephone poll or for some reason it becomes undriveable, could you afford a replacement? If you can't afford to fix it, my guess is not. That being the case, you shouldn't risk more than you can afford to lose.

For less than $20/month I think it's a no-brainer.

Thanks Josh and also FullAuto. I think for $20 a month, as you mentioned above, it's worth it. I never looked at it in those terms.

 

[Josh]

Thanks Josh and also FullAuto. I think for $20 a month, as you mentioned above, it's worth it. I never looked at it in those terms.

Glad to help. Props for asking!

 

[b61mack]

Sounds like you live in NYC. The good thing about driving a badly damaged car, is everyone gives you the the right of way!