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bumped someone's car lightly, no visible damage—should I report?

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mythology_sky
Posts: 7
(@mythology_sky)
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"Even if you don't see visible damage, sometimes internal parts like clips or sensors can get knocked loose."

Exactly this. I've seen cases where minor bumps ended up causing alignment issues or even affecting headlight aim—stuff you wouldn't notice right away. Plus, some policies have a reporting window, and if you wait too long, coverage could get tricky down the line. It's a hassle, sure, but documenting it early can save you a lot of headaches later... trust me on this one.

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gandalf_dreamer
Posts: 9
(@gandalf_dreamer)
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Yeah, gotta agree with this. A buddy of mine once tapped a parked car—barely even a scratch, seriously looked like nothing. He figured it was fine and moved on. Couple weeks later, the other driver tracked him down saying their parking sensors were acting all wonky. Turned out that tiny bump knocked something loose inside the bumper. Who knew, right?

Insurance got involved, and it turned into a whole thing because he hadn't reported it right away. Not saying that'll definitely happen here, but it's worth covering your bases just in case. I know it's tempting to shrug it off (been there myself), but better safe than sorry... especially when insurance companies love finding reasons not to pay up, lol.

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Posts: 11
(@josephfisher)
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"Insurance got involved, and it turned into a whole thing because he hadn't reported it right away."

Yeah, seen this happen more times than you'd think. Even tiny bumps can mess up sensors or alignment. Reporting early saves headaches later... insurance companies aren't exactly forgiving about delays.

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music975
Posts: 8
(@music975)
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Had a similar thing happen a couple years back—barely tapped someone's bumper in a tight parking lot. Looked fine, no visible scratches or dents, figured it was nothing. But something felt off, so I snapped a few quick pics and left my info anyway. Sure enough, two days later the other driver called saying their backup sensors were acting weird. Insurance got involved, and even though it was minor, having reported it early made things way smoother. Honestly, sensors and electronics these days are so sensitive that even tiny bumps can cause hidden issues. Better safe than sorry... learned my lesson to always at least document and report right away.

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PolicyPal_Paula
Posts: 10
(@policypal_paula)
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"Honestly, sensors and electronics these days are so sensitive that even tiny bumps can cause hidden issues."

Exactly—modern cars are basically rolling computers now. Always recommend snapping a few quick pics, jotting down details, and reporting early. Saves headaches later. Curious if anyone's had insurance push back over something this minor...?

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